MUSLIMS IN BANGKOK MARK 1 SYAWAL IN A SOMBRE ATMOSPHERE FOLLOWING EARTHQUAKE

By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock

BANGKOK, 31 Mac (Bernama) -- Muslims in Thailand, particularly in the capital Bangkok, observed Hari Raya Aidilfitri in a sombre atmosphere following a powerful earthquake that struck Myanmar. The quake caused tremors in Thailand’s capital on Friday and has so far claimed 17 lives, while dozens are still reported missing.

While Muslims in other countries celebrate the arrival of Syawal with joy, the Islamic community in Bangkok faces uncertainty and remains cautious as aftershocks continue to be felt. 

A representative from Thailand's Sheikhul Islam, Korsem Mankhong, 71, said that most residents in Bangkok are still worried about aftershocks.

“We pray that Allah preserves and protects all residents, regardless of race,” he told Bernama when met at Zhohirul Islam Thonglor Mosque, Sukhumvit, on Monday.

Earlier, heavy rain on the morning of 1 Syawal did not prevent Muslims in Bangkok from performing the Aidilfitri Sunnah prayer.

Around 200 congregants attended the prayer, led by Imam Ruslan Pontongdee.

A congregant, Aisha Vasinee Klinnest, 35, said she regularly attended the mosque to perform the Aidilfitri prayer. However, due to limited space, many choose to go to other mosques.

“I deeply sympathise with the disaster victims and always pray that their suffering will come to an end soon,” she said.

“Islam teaches us to help those in need. Therefore, as Muslims, we are always ready to offer assistance, and we pray for the situation to return to normal soon,” she added.

Meanwhile, Thailand’s Prime Minister, Paetongtarn Shinawatra, in her message on Sunday, extended Eid greetings to all Muslims both within the country and abroad.

Paetongtarn said that Aidilfitri is a celebration marking the end of Ramadan fasting, during which Muslims fulfil their religious obligations.

She also emphasised that practices such as giving charity, forgiving, showing compassion, and following the beautiful teachings of Islam—rooted in love and true kindness—contribute to a life of happiness, well-being, and inner peace.

Thailand is estimated to have around 10 million Muslim residents.

-- BERNAMA