KAJANG: Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today reminded any group out to destroy the prevailing racial unity in the country to stop their actions as this could hamper national aspirations.
He said racial unity which was the foundation for harmony in this country
since 54 years ago must be strengthened as a platform to turn Malaysia into a
successful and developed nation by 2020.
"No group should try to destroy the foundations built on the cooperation and
agreement reached between our past leaders from different races and religions.
"This racial understanding must be protected and strengthened so that the
aspiration of making Malaysia a role model for other countries can become a
reality soon," he said in his speech at the Malaysia Christmas Open House 2011,
here, today.
Also present were Muhyiddin's wife Puan Sri Norainee Abdul Rahman,
Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim and
his wife Datin Seri Masnah Rais.
Muhyiddin said although Malaysian society was multiracial and
multireligious, cooperation could be strengthened if there was greater mutual
respect and love, and spirit of unity among the people in their daily lives.
He said celebrating the various festivals by all races in this country
should continue as this was an important unifying element.
He added that the open house event such as today's for the Christmas
celebration and visiting each other's home could help foster understanding and
mutual respect regardless of race, religion and economic background.
"Malaysia is the only country in the world where all the races join in each
other's festival celebration.
"This is the special thing about Malaysia and we should protect and maintain
this practice," he said.
Muhyiddin also stressed that in upholding the principle of social justice
for all races, the government had not deprived any community from enjoying the
fruit of development.
"We have made achievements which we can be proud of at all levels, and no
community is sidelined in developing this country all this while.
"We are grateful for this, and we believe and are confident that the racial
cooperation can continue with the involvement of leaders at all levels,
including religious leaders.
"And if we can accept whatever opinion or idea from anyone as long as it is
good for the country, then Malaysia will be able to achieve more success in the
future," he added.
Rais in his speech said the government under the leadership of Prime
Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his deputy Muhyiddin always gave
recognition to all traditions and festivals of the people in this country.
"Each year, the government holds the national-level Aidilfitri, Deepavali,
Christmas and Chinese New Year festivals, and the Tadau Kaamatan in Sabah and
Gawai in Sarawak.
"This proves that the government always provides the avenue for our
traditions to be recognised and preserved by us all.
"Let us show to the world that we respect all the traditions and religions
practised in this country," he said.
-- BERNAMA
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