Published: Saturday August 18, 2012 MYT 4:50:00 PM

PM: Muslims must realise peace, security not achieved without struggles

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak on Saturday urged all Malaysians and Muslims in the country to appreciate and realise that peace and harmony enjoyed today did not just come easy.

In his Hari Raya Aidilfitri message, Najib said the government was aware that a developed nation like Malaysia must also be a safe and peaceful country.

"We want a Malaysia that is peaceful and free from threats from within or from outside. Ensure the neighbourhood and streets are free from crime. A country where its people are safe and peaceful. A country where children can be brought up well," he said.

To ensure peace and harmony, there must a united initiative from the people of Malaysia who are concerned and caring towards family, neighbours, friends and all Malaysians in general.

"We cannot totally depend on the enforcement authorities to combat crime but rather be caring and contribute in any way possible to help the cause. If we allow crime to go on without taking any punitive action, it will actually endanger the country's peace and security," he said.

In order to achieve the objective, the Prime Minister urged the people to change their mind-set and adopt the right frame of mind to enhance facilities needed to be strengthen security and enforcement.

Najib said the government would ensure that all agencies responsible would be more effective and efficient in combating crime.

"We are aware that new preventive measures are needed to combat new crimes, dynamic administrators, accountability, better structure in organisations, relevant training, modern equipments and facilities," he said.

Najib said Muslims in the country are fortunate that they are living in a country that was continuously achieving success and growth although many countries are undergoing political unrest and economic crisis.

"Today, we are witnessing all kinds of political turmoil in Asian and African countries. We can also see that even developed European countries and the United States are going through chronic economic crisis due to poor administration and management. "We are also witnessing the hardship faced by the people due to such failure and instability. As a result, unemployment rate has increased, economic growth has slowed down and the quality of life of these people have deteriorated," he said.

However, even in the midst of such global uncertainty and financial crisis, Malaysia remains steadfast by enjoying good financial growth, peace and harmony as well as usher various festivals celebrated by the different races, reflecting unity in the country.

"We have a unique tradition of celebrating so many festivals due to the many races, religion and culture which has indeed become a pillar of strength in the country's development and success," he said.

The Prime Minister said Muslims must, therefore, respect and appreciate the sacrifices made by the uniformed bodies who ensure we continue to enjoy peace and harmony.

Najib also urged Muslims to retain the 'Open House' tradition that has since become a unique feature in Malaysian culture.

"On this joyous occasion, I, my wife and family would also like to take this opportunity to wish all Muslims 'Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri maaf zahir dan batin," he said. - Bernama

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