KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has called on Malaysians to practice tolerance in ensuring harmony and unity in the community.
He said the concept of 'tasamuh' or tolerance as demanded in Islam was a trait that is universal, and not only allowed the people to take the country to greater heights, but could also avoid unnecessary and harmful disputes.
"The spirit of tasamuh, introduced by Prophet Muhammad SAW when developing the holy city of Madinah where the Ansar (local Madinah inhabitants) and the Muhajirin (early followers of Islam who migrated from Makkah to Madinah) adopted the spirit of tolerance that created a caring society."
He said this in his special address in conjunction with the Maal Hijrah 1444H/2022M celebration, themed "Keluarga Malaysia: Catalyst for Prosperity" aired on local television channels tonight.
In his speech, Ismail Sabri said the spirit of tasamuh was also adopted by members of Parliament when they unanimously agreed to the Constitution (Amendment) Bill (No. 3), banning party-hopping among MPs on Thursday.
The MPs, he said, had put aside political differences for the sake of Keluarga Malaysia.
He said Maal Hijrah was not just about appreciating the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Madinah to spread the message of Islam, but also had a greater meaning.
"The challenges faced today require tenacity and resilience of every citizen, such as the spirit of sacrifice of the Muhajirin who were willing to leave their property and homes.
Hijrah in today's context is making an effort to change into a better individual that is useful to others.
"Within our own scope of duties, we are responsible for ensuring that relations between communities are in line with the principles of inclusivity, togetherness and gratitude as emphasised in the concept of Keluarga Malaysia," said Ismail Sabri, adding that such values were important to deal with unprecedented challenges.
It is with the spirit of togetherness, he said, that Malaysia had also successfully entered the transition to the endemic phase after over two years battling health and economic issues as a result of the Covid–19 pandemic.
"Apply the values of this Hijrah event so it becomes a catalyst for the country's prosperity and the wellbeing of Keluarga Malaysia."