PM’s X'mas message: Seize chance to understand each other better

PETALING JAYA: Malaysians must continue to seize the opportunity to forge better understanding between different cultures and faith, saidPrime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“I underscored this belief when in July, I led the government delegates to pay a courtesy call to Pope Benedict XVI in his summer residence at Castel Gandolfo, and shared my vision of the Global Movement of the Moderates. “From that working visit, Malaysia and the Holy See (Vatican City) agreed to establish diplomatic relations, which I hope will lead to closer links and inter-faith dialogue between us,” he said Saturday in his Christmas Day message in his blog.

The Prime Minister added that the Government was committed to further strengthening the long existing interaction with the Christian community. “I have always made a special effort to meet with people of all faiths. I look forward to continuing this practice of seeking your ideas and hearing your thoughts for the betterment of our society,” he added.

Najib said celebrations that were specific to cultural and religious communities had become increasingly accepted and celebrated by the larger Malaysian population, such as the gift-giving custom commonly practice during Christmas. “It is fascinating to observe how the nation's multi-cultural as well as multi-religious practices blend into the society,” he said.

He also urged Malaysians to spend Christmas to understand other fellow Malaysians better, and appreciate them for the diversity and strength they contribute to the nation. “Last but not least, I wish all Malaysians of Christian faith a Merry Christmas,” he said.

-thestar online.