UNITY: Build on our strengths and values
IT is pleasing to read of so many communities in Malaysia celebrating their New Year and other festivals in April.
IT is pleasing to read of so many communities in Malaysia celebrating their New Year and other festivals in April.
Included in it are Malaysian Siamese, Tamils and Sikhs.
Let us heed the call of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to continue to preserve unity.
This reminds me of an inspiring letter in recent times, and of advice, too, from the Grand Mufti of Syria, Sheikh Dr Ahmad Badr Al-Din Hassoun, who was quoted as saying: "The nation (Malaysia) that is established on the collectivity of races and religions is destined to succeed in the future.
"And when cultural diversity is embraced, the strength of humanity shines through. Here, there is the Malaysian culture, composed largely of Malay, Chinese and Indian cultures, which add to their strengths and values."
Yes, Malaysians should heed his advice and work in conformity with the Constitution and in the spirit of the Rukun Negara.
We must practise equality as provided in the Constitution and economic policies must not discriminate against anyone.
No one should be allowed to use racial and communal agitation as a political tool.
The government should remove barriers that hinder national unity and a Malaysian identity. Above all, we must be kind and loving to others.
Bulbir Singh, Seremban, Negri Sembilan