Hualien's 2024 Eid al-Fitr Celebration & Legal Awareness Event

(中央社訊息服務20250401 10:48:42)On March 31, the Hualien County Government hosted the 2024 Eid al-Fitr Celebration and Legal Awareness Event for the first time in front of the county hall. Eid al-Fitr is a significant festival for Muslims worldwide, marking the end of Ramadan and the beginning of the new year. On this day, Muslims wake up early to perform ritual cleansing, dress in festive attire, and gather with family and friends for prayers, warm embraces, and blessings. They collectively face Mecca in worship and celebrate the new year with a special Eid feast.

For the past five years, the Hualien County Government has emphasized cultural diversity by holding grand Eid celebrations. This year's event saw an enthusiastic turnout, with over 650 foreign workers joining the festivities. The event featured traditional Islamic prayer ceremonies, legal education sessions, interactive quizzes with prizes, and vibrant international dance performances. Additionally, special halal meal boxes were provided, allowing migrant workers to enjoy familiar flavors from their homeland.

Hualien County Mayor Hsu Chen-Wei noted that, as of January 2024 (based on Ministry of Labor statistics), Hualien County had 5,617 migrant workers—1,972 in the industrial sector and 3,645 in the social welfare sector. Among them, 3,091 workers are from Indonesia, making up 55% of Hualien’s migrant workforce. She expressed gratitude to these hardworking individuals who have traveled far from home to contribute to various industries and households in Hualien. Given their busy schedules, opportunities for large gatherings like Eid are rare. To foster community and show genuine care for the Muslim population, the county government continues to provide a comfortable space each year for Muslim friends to connect, support one another, and celebrate together.

In alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to reduce inequalities and foster inclusive partnerships, the Hualien County Government remains committed to cultural diversity and inclusivity. By organizing Eid celebrations that include prayers, legal awareness activities, and social interactions, the county aims to strengthen understanding between foreign workers and local residents, promote labor-employer harmony, and encourage social and legal awareness. Through these efforts, Hualien is building a welcoming and diverse community where different cultures can thrive together.