Kuala lumpur: The month of Ramadan is hailed as the best 'madrasah' for self-reflection and addressing personal shortcomings, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced. He emphasized that Ramadan serves as a 'school' uniting all societal segments-from muftis to ministers and the general public-to engage in self-reflection with humility.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Prime Minister Anwar urged individuals to seize this opportunity for self-improvement, emphasizing that Ramadan is not a time to instruct others but to introspect and enhance one's abilities across various domains. He conveyed this message during an assembly with Home Ministry staff and the Ihya' Ramadan programme.

The event was also attended by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, his deputy Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Treasury secretary-general Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican.

Anwar highlighted that fasting during Ramadan is a test of sincerity, discipline, and inner strength, akin to the experiences of earlier ummahs as documented in the Quran. He noted that Islamic scholars view Ramadan as a madrasah ruhiyah (spiritual school), focusing on inner strength, self-discipline, and compassion for those in need.

He stressed the importance of making the most of Ramadan to improve various aspects of life. He pointed out that the spiritual nurturing ('tarbiyah') during Ramadan should lead to tangible improvements, which can be evaluated in the subsequent month of Syawal. Anwar advised individuals to set goals for comprehensive self-improvement, including strengthening their relationship with the Quran and enhancing worship and work discipline.

Furthermore, Anwar cautioned against persistent issues like corruption, despite the spiritual practices associated with Ramadan, such as mosque attendance, almsgiving, and performing the umrah. He reminded everyone, including himself, that while Ramadan serves as a test, recurring weaknesses must be addressed.