HUTAN MELINTANG: Muslims nationwide should put aside their political differences as they have a common goal, which is to create a united community and prosperous Malaysia.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said Malaysian Muslims have always been respected for their moderation and contribution toward the country's development.
"Those from other countries have always praised us as a moderate and developed Muslim country.
"Therefore, we have to return to the true teachings of Islam which stresses on unity," he said when closing a mass Quran recital programme for his Bagan Datoh parliamentary constituency, here today.
Although there are differences in opinion among the Muslims, he said they were small and could be deemed as "khilaf" (permissible differing views).
"We don't follow different mazhabs but only have different opinions.
"However, our differences are not that big as we always refer to the Quran," he said.
Zahid also said that the Quran was revealed in the holy month of Ramadan to be a source of guidance, not only for Muslims but also for all mankind.
"We must encourage Muslims to make Islam as the way of life.
"Hopefully, all the good things we do will also benefit others," he said.