KUALA LUMPUR: Religious tolerance is the cornerstone of Bangsa Malaysia, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said harmony prevails when Malaysians understand not only their faith but also that of others.
"Malaysians of all backgrounds must maintain and defend the religious harmony we currently enjoy.
"It is not easy to maintain peace and stability in the country if we fail to forge a tolerant mindset among ourselves," he said at this year's national-level Christmas celebrations at the Pavilion shopping mall here today.
Zahid said the peace that currently prevails in the county indicated that the government is sincere in realising freedom of religion.
"The fact that Malaysians collectively celebrate various religious and cultural festivities show that we respect all faiths.
"We do not want any external or internal elements that would threaten national stability and peace," he said adding that tourists are welcome to celebrate Christmas and New Year in the country.
Organised by the Tourism Ministry and Pavilion KL, the festive gathering which drew more than two thousand spectators of different backgrounds, were filled with performances by cultural groups based on a 'fairytale' theme.
The lively celebration was aimed at making the country a world-class tourist destination as well as forging a national identity based on arts, culture and heritage.
The audience were also feted to performances by local artistes namely Datuk David Arumugam, Cassidy Anderson, Michael Leaner and Dewi Liana Seriestha.
Present were Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai and Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri Richard Riot Anak Jaem.