KUALA LUMPUR: Inclusive engagement and constructive dialogue are key towards maintaining stability and sustainable peace.
Wisma Putra, in its Commonwealth Day message, said in this regard, Malaysia believes that the moderation approach, as espoused by the Global Movement of Moderates, should be embraced globally to counter extremism in all its forms and in the peaceful resolution of conflicts.
"This approach, among others, advocates peaceful means, such as mediation, constructive dialogue and engagement based on mutual respect.
"At a time when the world is confronted with serious threats and challenges to the wellbeing of our peoples, the Commonwealth family of nations, with its shared values of tolerance, mutual respect and understanding becomes a source of strength, hope and inspiration for all of its member states."
The statement said this year's theme for Commonwealth Day, celebrated on March 13, is "A Peace-building Commonwealth" which was an affirmation of the Commonwealth Charter principle that "international peace and security, sustainable economic growth and development, and the rule of law are essential to the progress and prosperity of all."
The Commonwealth had played a catalytic role, Wisma Putra said, in strengthening society's capacity to manage disparity and diversity through its emphasis on the shared values and principles.
It added that these values and principles were enshrined in the Commonwealth Charter, its Good Offices role, through various programmes and activities as well as assistance in building democratic institutions, good governance, credible and transparent elections.
"Malaysia is committed to strengthening its role in the Commonwealth, including in peace-building.
"Towards this end, Malaysia had participated in several Commonwealth Election Observer Missions to observe elections in member states with a view to ensuring credible and transparent elections," the statement said, adding that Malaysia was the first country to invite the Commonwealth Election Observer Mission to observe its 8th General Election in 1990.
Wisma Putra also said, as Malaysia prepares to host the 2020 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the country reaffirmed its commitment to the important work of the Commonwealth towards achieving global peace and security, sustainable economic growth and social development for the future generation.
"Today is also a day that 52 countries with a shared history, come together to cherish the ties that bind them.
"It also serves to remind the peoples of the Commonwealth that together, we can accomplish our shared goals of peace, sustainable economic growth and social development."