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FESTIVE celebrations should serve as a unifying platform to deepen harmony, mutual respect and understanding among Malaysians of all backgrounds, Deputy Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusoff said today.
In his Christmas message posted on X, Fadillah urged Malaysians to remain mindful of sensitivities in the country’s multiracial and multireligious society, calling on the public to avoid words, actions or elements that could spark anger, discomfort or misunderstanding when celebrating diversity.
“Religious, racial and cultural sensitivities must always be preserved to ensure that the harmony we enjoy continues to be safeguarded. Differences in backgrounds are not a reason for division, but rather a strength that unites us,” he said.
Fadillah added that the spirit of tolerance, mutual understanding and respect should underpin every celebration, enabling them to become a strong foundation for national unity.
“With the spirit of tolerance, mutual understanding and respect, every celebration can serve as a strong foundation for national unity. Let us continue to work hand in hand, set aside our differences and jointly build a sustainable national economy for the well-being of the people,” he said.
He said unity in diversity remained the backbone of stability, prosperity and a more secure future for the country, in line with the aspirations of the MADANI Government.
“May the peace, harmony and unity we enjoy today continue to be preserved and passed on to future generations,” he added.
On the eve of Christmas, several ministers also extended festive greetings to Christians nationwide, underscoring the central role of harmony and togetherness in Malaysia’s nation-building efforts.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said harmony formed the foundation of national stability, noting that unity was indispensable for sustainable development.
“Christmas reminds us that harmony is the basis of national stability. Without harmony, there is no peace and without peace, it is difficult to build a stable and prosperous nation,” he said in a Facebook post, while wishing Christians a joyful celebration with their loved ones.
Human Resource Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan described Christmas as a celebration of universal values such as love, sacrifice, reflection, peace and hope, which he said were essential for nurturing a harmonious and respectful society aligned with Malaysia MADANI’s vision.
He noted that in Malaysia’s multiracial, multi-religious and multicultural setting, Christmas highlighted the country’s diversity, with tolerance, unity and togetherness forming the basis of social stability and shared prosperity.
“Therefore, let us together respect adherents of all religions. This is the time to highlight the values embraced by Christians as well as followers of other religions, namely mutual respect, tolerance towards one another and helping those who are less fortunate,” he said.
Ramanan also expressed hope that the Christmas season would bring joy and peace, and that the new year would usher in greater opportunities, progress and shared well-being.
Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup said Christmas served as a reminder of humanitarian values and unity, which continued to strengthen harmony in Malaysia’s diverse society.
“In these challenging times, it is this spirit that will continue to strengthen the bonds among us as one big Malaysian family,” he said.
He added that he hoped the celebration would further reinforce community ties and inspire collective efforts towards a more united, prosperous and resilient Malaysia.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke echoed similar sentiments, saying the festive season reflected values of gratitude, compassion and togetherness that resonated strongly within Malaysia’s diverse society.
“In a society where people of different races and religious backgrounds celebrate their traditions side by side throughout the year, this spirit of understanding and respect has long been one of Malaysia’s greatest strengths,” he said in a Facebook post.
“As we continue to move ahead as a nation, these are values that we must safeguard and uphold, so that future progress remains inclusive, harmonious and rooted in unity,” he added.
Loke also wished Malaysians safe travels during the holidays and expressed appreciation to transport frontliners and essential workers for their dedication in keeping the nation connected throughout the festive season. - December 25, 2025
