M'sian PM Najib: Spend Christmas To Understand Fellow Malaysians Better

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Najib Razak has called on Malaysians to spend this Christmas to understand fellow Malaysians better, and appreciate them for the diversity and strength they have contributed to the country. "What I like about this time of the year is that Christmas helps to remind people to spread goodwill and cheer, just in time to usher in the New Year and make a fresh start. We could all use a little reminder every now and then," he said. In his Christmas message posted on his www.1Malaysia.com.my blog, Najib said he always believed that as a nation of moderates, "we must seize every opportunity to forge better understanding between Malaysians of different cultures and faith." The prime minister said he underscored this belief when he led government delegates to pay a courtesy call on Pope Benedict XVI at his summer residence in Castel Gandolfo in July, where he shared his vision of the Global Movement of the Moderates. "From that working visit, Malaysia and the Holy See (Vatican City) have agreed to establish diplomatic relations, which I hope will lead to closer links and inter-faith dialogue between us," he said. Likewise, at home, Najib said he was equally committed to further strengthening the interaction that had long existed with the Christian community. "I've always made a special effort to meet with people of all faiths. I look forward to continuing this practice to seek your ideas and hear your thoughts for the betterment of our society," he said. The prime minister noted that in Malaysia, 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 practiced during Christmas. "It's fascinating to observe how the nation’s multi-cultural as well as multi-religious practices blend into the society," he said as he wished all Malaysians of the Christian faith a Merry Christmas. Christmas is celebrated worldwide on Dec 25. -- BERNAMA