Building bridges of friendship over ‘chapati’

Feb 14, 2025

BAYAN LEPAS, Penang: The “Chapati Morning” gathering on January 27 embraced the spirit of Pope Francis’ encyclical Fratelli Tutti on human fraternity and social friendship, as envisioned in the ‘2019 Abu Dhabi Declaration on Human Fraternity for World Peace and Living Together’. Hosted by Lajnah Dakwah PAS Pulau Pinang, the event brought together leaders from both the Muslim and Catholic communities, demonstrating their commitment to building bridges and fostering mutual understanding.

Sharing a simple yet meaningful chapati meal together, served as a powerful symbol of unity. It highlighted how breaking bread can transcend differences, offering a space for dialogue and connection that strengthens the bonds of friendship and promotes a deeper sense of shared humanity.

YB Amir Hamzah warmly welcomed Cardinal Sebastian Francis, Bishop of Penang; Msgr Jude Miranda, Vicar General of Penang Diocese; Deacon Paul Kang, CEO of Mount Miriam Cancer Hospital; and Christopher Kushi, Legal Officer. The gathering was also attended by Ahli Majlis Syura Ulamak PAS, Tuan Guru Hj Ahmad Ali; President of Lajnah Dakwah PAS Penang YB Amir Hamzah Hashim; Vice-President of Lajnah Dakwah PAS Pusat Tuan Hj. Abdul Rahman, and other PAS members.

In his welcome address, YB Amir Hamzah, who is also the ADUN of Permatang Pasir, emphasised the importance of strengthening the bonds of friendship with Cardinal Sebastian and members of the Catholic Diocese of Penang. He noted that this gathering serves as a model for younger generations, showcasing the spirit of co-existence and the ability to work together. Tuan Guru Haji Ahmad Ali echoed these sentiments, stressing that Islam places great importance on fostering positive human relationships and nurturing love among all people.

Cardinal Sebastian expressed his joy over the strong friendship that has developed with PAS since his appointment as Bishop of Penang. He highlighted the shared commitment to friendship, collaboration, and, given PAS’s political role, the importance of good governance in Malaysia.

Tuan Abdul Rahman also reflected on these deep-rooted bonds, recalling recent meetings between Cardinal Sebastian and key PAS leaders, including Mursyidul Am Tuan Guru Dato’ Hashim Jasin; PAS President Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang; PAS Vice-President Datuk Idris Ahmad, and Kelantan MB Dato’ Panglima Dr Mohamed Fadzil Hassan.

The 2019 Abu Dhabi Declaration, signed by His Holiness Pope Francis and Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Sheikh Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, underscores the importance of building understanding and cooperation between all people — East and West, North and South — who share the belief that God created us. It calls for mutual respect, collaboration, and the pursuit of universal peace, where all can live as brothers and sisters in love.