PETALING JAYA: In a Christmas message to Malaysians, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak gave the assurance of the right of all Malaysians to practise their religion.
"Today, I would like to wish all Malaysian Christians – in Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, Sarawak, and around the world – a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
"Christmas is a day when Christians commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ. And it’s also a time when family and friends come together, to look back on the year that was with thanks, and to look forward to a new year with hope and goodwill.
"In Malaysia, we are blessed that different ethnicities, languages, and faiths live together as one.
"‘1Malaysia’ symbolises this collective unity, emphasising ethnic harmony, national unity and racial tolerance.
"Our Constitution guarantees the right of all Malaysians to practise their religion.
"And the 10-point solution to address the Bahasa bible and other related issues – that was agreed upon in 2011, and which must be consistent with state laws – was introduced as a way to manage our diversity and protect this right.
"I am proud of the peace and harmony that we have achieved since Merdeka. Regardless of our ethnicity, culture or religion, Malaysians respect each other’s religious festivals together in solidarity.
"This Christmas, let us once again come together in the spirit of harmony, acceptance and respect. And celebrate the diversity that makes Malaysia so exceptional," he said on his blog, NajibRazak.com.
