PENANG, 30 Sept 2008: The practice of visiting one another, which has become a tradition of the country’s multi-racial society, can foster closer relations among the people and enhance the spirit of unity, the essence of social understanding, Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said today.
This was in keeping with Islam as a universal religion because the Islamic way of life is comprehensive and encompasses all aspects, economically, socially and politically, he said in his Aidilfitri message.
Lim said the diversity of religion, customs and language was not a hindrance to progress.
“It is this diversity that enables Malaysia to be a developed nation, [and] the people to maintain the country’s peace and political stability, despite facing global constraints and the world economic crisis,” he added.
In Kuala Lumpur, Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Seri Ong Ka Chuan said that unity, built through the festivities of various races, was like a house built on stilts which would not collapse easily even when hit by strong winds.
“Each and everyone of us are the stilts that uphold the peace and prosperity of this beloved country,” he added.
In Kuching, Sarawak Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Abang Muhammad Salahuddin Abang Barieng, in his Aidilfitri message, said the people of other races were encouraged to visit open houses hosted by Muslims to foster relations and build friendships.
In Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman called on the people to remain united and steadfast to ensure smooth implementation of development programmes in Sabah.
He said the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration served as a special occasion for reconciliation and forgiveness among family members and friends.
It is a festivity to be shared with friends from different religions and races, he added. — Bernama
