There is a growing voice of Islamic scholars that have concluded that one can get vaccinated in the month of Ramadan - Koya

Minister for Commerce, Faiyaz Koya says there is a growing voice of Islamic scholars that have concluded that one can get vaccinated in the month of Ramadan because vaccines do not nourish the body.

Muslims fast during the holy month of Ramadan before celebrating Eid.

Ramadan is expected to begin next Wednesday.

Speaking at the opening of the Masjid Hanifa in Sonaisali, Nadi Koya is encouraging everyone to get vaccinated as soon as it is available.

The Minister says during the last fasting season, mosques and other places of worship were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and with over a year of no community transmission of the virus, Fiji is truly blessed to have the freedom to gather.

He says while the government has progressively taken tremendous, and cautious steps to recovery, Fijians also play a very big role in this journey.

Koya adds with the arrival of the COVID-19 vaccines, it is critically important for everyone to register for them and put Fiji in a stronger position to return to normalcy and recovery.

He says during this challenging time, people look for strength and inspiration from their spiritual and cultural roots.

He adds that people must welcome the opportunity to humble themselves, learn from others during this time, celebrate their religious identity, but also open their minds to the possibilities of living and co-existing harmoniously, irrespective of colour, religion or status.

Minister for Education, Rosy Akbar and Minister for Agriculture, Doctor Mahendra Reddy were also present for the opening of the mosque.