PETALING JAYA: PAS has wished Malaysian Christians a Merry Christmas and says it hopes the festive period will lead to better and meaningful days ahead.
“Islamic teachings embrace the bonds of our great human family, inclusive of people of all races, cultures and religions, legally and honourably,” said party secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan.
He said the harmonious and festive celebration of various religious or cultural events in the country was a treasure that must be defended from any inclination that might weaken the practice.
“It must be nurtured with the awareness that the existing diversity is a treasure for Malaysian society that adds value to the quality of our togetherness,” he said in a statement yesterday.
Takiyuddin, the Kota Baru MP, said PAS celebrated and was always open to diversity, adding that it was not only a special feature of Malaysian society but also a core of Islam’s teachings.
Perikatan Nasional chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, in his greetings, said Malaysians were fortunate to live in peace and harmony.
He said Malaysia was a multiracial country and the people were free to follow and practise their religions.
“Let’s use Christmas as a basis for us to further strengthen our unity and harmonious society. Merry Christmas!” he said in an Instagram post.
Bersatu vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ronald Kiandee said he hoped the celebration would inspire peace and happiness to all.
The Beluran MP said Christmas was a unique symbol of cultural diversity and harmony between the various races and religions, and encouraged everyone to embrace the spirit of unity and respect each other’s culture.
“Let’s celebrate the unique diversity in the country while being impartial to ethnicity, culture and religion,” he said.
