Thousands attend Eid al-Fitr celebration at Taipei Main Station

2017/06/27

Thousands of people gathered June 25 at Taipei Main Station to celebrate the Muslim holy day of Eid al-Fitr at an event organized to foster a friendly environment for Muslim residents and visitors.

Eid al-Fitr, also known as Hari Raya Idul Fitri, marks the end of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting.

The celebration was co-organized by the Taipei City Government, Taiwan Halal Center under the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), Indonesian Economic and Trade Office to Taipei, Taipei Grand Mosque Foundation as well as Chinese Muslim Association. It featured an exciting array of activities such as live performances and singing competitions.

Other attractions included a halal market, photo opportunities and free international calls. Those in attendance were also offered information on prayer rooms, halal restaurants and products, and mosques in Taiwan.

President Tsai Ing-wen posted a video message on social media to mark the holiday, wishing everyone a joyous Hari Raya Idul Fitri and thanking Muslim migrant workers for their great contributions to the economy. She said that Muslim culture has expanded Taiwan’s international perspective while at the same time diversifying and enriching the nation.

“Taiwan is a hospitable and friendly country,” the president said, adding that it is the common goal of the people of Taiwan to safeguard equality and foster a multicultural environment. Tsai also cited public and private sector efforts to nurture a Muslim-friendly environment such as establishing prayer rooms, organizing Muslim celebrations and promoting halal certifications for hotels and restaurants.

At the event, Taipei City Mayor Ko Wen-je extended his best wishes to all, adding that while there are already 45 halal-certified restaurants in the capital, the local government will continue its efforts to set up more Muslim-friendly spaces in the city. Ko also participated in celebrations by handing out green envelopes, a tradition similar to that of gifting red envelopes during Chinese New Year.

Taiwan Halal Center was established in April as part of government efforts to assist local businesses in tapping potential-laden Muslim markets worldwide by serving as a match-making and information sharing platform. The center also aims to create a complete halal industry ecosystem in Taiwan by providing local firms with market intelligence, helping them gain halal certification and stimulating related exports.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/news.php?unit=18&post=117417)