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Sunday August 20, 2006

Let’s all pray together, says Aziz

JOHOR BARU: Muslims and non-Muslims should pray together at the beginning of public functions.

“The person leading the Muslim prayers should ask the non-Muslims to pray according to their respective religions,” said Rural Development Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Aziz Shamsuddin.

“Christians, Buddhists and Hindus have their own prayers. When we (Muslims) are praying, they can pray, too. Let us all pray together for the good of the country. All prayers are good. We do not want anybody to feel left out during prayers,” he said.

Aziz said unity was the key to Malaysia’s harmonious society since independence was achieved 49 years ago, and he hoped that the various races and religions could continue co-existing.

“Let’s not go our separate ways just because differences of race and religion. Jagalah hati (Be sensitive to the feelings) of our friends. Do not let (differences in) religion cause the country’s downfall,” he said, adding that religious spats are usually because of the misunderstanding or lack of understanding of other religions.

When asked if more inter-faith conferences should be held to promote better understanding, Aziz said: “For the moment, do not confuse the issues. Everyone is free to practise his own religion.”

Last month, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi urged the cessation of Article 11 forums because they were deemed to cause tension.

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