KUALA LUMPUR: PAS extended Thaipusam greetings to all Hindu devotees celebrating the festival tomorrow.
Its secretary-general, Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, said they hope the celebration proceeds smoothly and safely, especially as this year is expected to attract a larger crowd than usual, particularly in Penang.
He mentioned that, like other religious or cultural celebrations, Thaipusam is another manifestation of diversity that adds value to the quality of experience and awareness of the people in matters related to openness, simplicity, compromise, mutual acceptance, and respect.
"Without prejudice or a tendency to judge, this experience is an invaluable asset and advantage for Malaysians, especially in facing the reality of global diversity compared to countries that are more monocultural in nature.
However, it is undeniable that there will continue to be parochial and negative views about certain groups, whether related to beliefs, culture, political tendencies, or national issues such as loyalty and the like," he said in a statement today.
He stated that PAS believes this perspective will remain on the fringes if all parties continue to be moderate and not magnify or be dragged into emotional wars and useless polemics.
He emphasised that openness, simplicity, and a compromising attitude towards diversity are not licenses for anyone to neglect, underestimate, let alone challenge the core values of this country.
PAS believes that with holistic, honest, and down-to-earth awareness, many conflicts and tensions can be avoided, he said.
"Parochialism, extremism, or excessive approaches are flaws that need to be softened with moderation, sound reasoning, and a noble attitude, not with a louder voice or a more threatening posture," he said.