Palestinians’ Resilience Deepened My Faith, Says 2025 National Muslim Convert Figure

SHAH ALAM, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- The struggle and resilience of the Palestinian people in facing constant pressure and security restrictions became the turning point for a Sino-Kadazan Muslim convert to hold firmly to the teachings of Islam and continue his efforts in the path of Allah.

Dr Ritchie Jay Cheng, 44, said his visit to Palestine in 2020 was a life-changing experience that opened his eyes to the strength of faith among Muslims living under occupation.

He said his trip to Jerusalem with a Muslim travel agency before the COVID-19 pandemic gave him the opportunity to witness firsthand the patience and steadfastness of Palestinians in enduring generations of restrictions and hardships.

“I went with a group of friends. We were not allowed to enter Gaza, but we spent time at Al-Aqsa Mosque.

“Throughout our stay, the security checks were extremely strict. We were searched multiple times by the authorities. What amazed me most was how calm and strong the Palestinians remained,” Cheng told reporters after the 2025 National MADANI Converts Convention (KEMUDI) here today.

Earlier, the Kota Kinabalu-born Cheng, a businessman, received the 2025 National Muslim Converts Figure award from Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar.

Cheng, who is also chairman of the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (MACMA), said the Palestinians’ kindness and generosity left a lasting impression, as they continued to welcome and assist visitors despite living under the hardship imposed by the Zionist regime.

“Seeing it with my own eyes made me realise how people of faith are constantly tested. They remain patient and smile even in the toughest situations,” he said.

As deputy president of the Sabah Association of Umrah and Haj Travel Agencies, he added that Palestine holds great historical and spiritual significance and has the potential to contribute to the regional economy if peace and stability can be restored.

“If the situation stabilises, I’m confident many travel agencies will once again include Palestine as a key pilgrimage destination. Al-Aqsa Mosque itself is a sacred site that every Muslim should visit,” said Cheng, who was also named the Special Maal Hijrah Figure for Kota Kinabalu in 2017.

Cheng also described the recognition received today as a trust and responsibility to continue spreading the message of Islam through compassion and knowledge-sharing.

-- BERNAMA