Prime Minister Hun Manet said that in order to build on the efforts of the previous government and to demonstrate the nation’s regard for Cambodian Muslims, his administration will host the 8th National Ramadan Iftar (breaking of fast) dinner in Phnom Penh on March 21.

More than 6,000 local and international guests are expected to attend.

He and his wife Pich Chanmony shared their regards with the billions of Muslims around the world who entered Ramadan, the holy month of Islam, on March 12.

“I would like to send my deepest gratitude to the Cambodian Muslims, who have participated in maintaining peace, national harmony and religious freedom, for their faith in my leadership and that of former Prime Minister Hun Sen, from the very beginning,” wrote Manet in a March 11 social media post.

“This year, more than 400 foreign friends from 39 nations, including Wan Muhamadnoor Matha, president of the Thai National Assembly, representatives of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and former senior leaders of several neighbouring countries will attend the Iftar dinner. Around 6,200 guests are expected,” he added.

Chay Borin, Minister of Cults and Religion, also sent a congratulatory message on the opening of the holy month.

“On the occasion of the holy month of Ramadan, all Muslims should fulfil their obligations by practising good deeds, giving alms and maintaining good relations with their neighbours. They should live with moral dignity, behave like good citizens and maintain harmony in the community,” he said.

Observing Ramadan is the fourth duty of the five foundational pillars of Islam.

The festival will run for a full month, and requires Muslims to fast, neither eating food nor drinking water during the daytime. Exceptions are made for the ill, the elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding women and those who are travelling.

The purpose of Ramadan is to demonstrate loyalty to their faith, as well as to practise self-discipline, sacrifice and gain empathy for those who are less fortunate.