PETALING JAYA: The recent tragedies have brought all Malaysians even closer together, regardless of faith, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar.
In a New Year's Day message on Saturday (Dec 31), Mohd Na'im called upon all Malaysians not to lose sight of what matters most - the intent to continue to progress.
"As the new year 2023 dawns upon us, let's take this time to reflect on our achievements and failures, so that we can strive to do better in renewing our resolutions, starting with the right intentions.
"Some may be working on self-progression while some may be looking for opportunities to help others. Whichever path one decides to take, it is worth noting that it starts with the intent to achieve progress over perfection.
"Recent tragedies that have hit us like the flood and landslide where lives were lost, among others have brought us Malaysians even closer together. Many from all walks of life have been seen standing in solidarity regardless of faith, to help those in need.
"In line with the spirit of this unity government, I wish to call upon all Malaysians irrespective of religious and political backgrounds, to continuously strive together in promoting the spirit of unity among one another, so that we do not lose sight of what matters most to us right now as a nation- to continue to progress amidst global challenges.
"As we all know, a nation without unity will be living in dissension and disharmony," said Mohd Na'im.
He also called upon Muslims to be more educated and to mind their manners.
"I would like to call upon my Muslim brothers and sisters to continue efforts in inculcating the love of knowledge and adab for only with knowledge and proper adab, the ummah could be revived once again as it had been during the golden age of Islamic civilization.
Happy New Year 2023. May our journey be eased, in all ways!" said Mohd Na'im.
