Narinjara News, 10 June, 2025 

The Eid al-Adha, an important Islamic celebration, was observed over three days in Rakhine State, encompassing the Maungdaw area located on the western border of Rakhine State, where the Arakan Army (AA) is present. 

According to locals, the significant Eid al-Adha for Muslims was celebrated in Rakhine State from June 7 to June 9. 

A Muslim elder from Maungdaw stated, “We could freely celebrate Eid al-Adha during the AA period. We were permitted to visit Kyaukpandhu Beach and various enjoyable locations. 

Local Muslims stated that the Arakan People's Revolutionary Government donated about 50 cows to Muslim communities in Maungdaw for the Eid al-Adha celebration. 

A local Muslim elder stated that during the prior military government, Muslims were not allowed to freely celebrate such religious festivals, and there were limitations on their movement in the area. 

"For many generations, our young people have not had the opportunity to celebrate religious festivals openly. Now, with the Arakan Army, they are able to enjoy them without restrictions.” 

At present, the AA is focused on avoiding disputes among local ethnic communities to maintain stability and peace in Arakan state, including the predominantly Muslim areas of Maungdaw and Buthidaung, and is carrying out patrols to combat crime and enhance security in the region, according to residents. 

During the Eid al-Adha festival, the Arakan People's Government has arranged meat donation events for Muslims in Pauktaw and Rathedaung Townships, as well as exempted cattle from slaughter taxes in Maungdaw, Buthidaung, Kyauktaw, Mrauk-U, Minbya, and Myebon.