In emphasizing Malaysia's multicultural heritage, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming has called on political parties to foster unity and move away from divisive rhetoric. This call comes after criticisms from certain PAS leaders regarding his ministry's recent Christmas celebration, which highlighted the country's rich cultural diversity.
During the launch of the “Sentuhan Kejayaan” programme in Meru Raya, Nga reaffirmed that his ministry honors all major festivals, including Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali, Christmas, and Chinese New Year. "Next month, we will be celebrating Chinese New Year," he stated. All festive seasons are welcomed and celebrated in harmony," he said, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to honoring Malaysia’s multicultural society.
Nga dismissed the criticisms from PAS Youth vice-chief Hanif Jamaluddin, who objected to the involvement of Muslim staff in the ministry’s Christmas celebration. Nga explained that the event included East Malaysian Christians, such as officers of Kadazan Dusun descent, showcasing mutual respect and harmony. “We will not bow to bigotry or extremism but will steadfastly honor and respect our multicultural society,” he asserted.
The minister also took the opportunity to address recent controversies involving PAS. He pointed out the inconsistency within the party, noting that PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan had previously issued a Christmas message emphasizing the importance of Christian holidays as part of Malaysia's cultural fabric. “This contradicts the narrow-minded remarks by some of their Youth leaders,” Nga remarked.
Nga further highlighted a recent defamation case against the Perak PAS commissioner, which resulted in an apology and compensation of RM5,000. “I urge PAS to refrain from using religion for exploitation and instead prioritize fostering unity,” he stated.
In a joint statement, DAP leaders Sheikh Umar Bagharib Ali, Young Syefura Othman, and Syahredzan Johan echoed Nga’s sentiments. They criticized PAS for politicizing the ministry’s Christmas event and urged the party to uphold the rights and diversity guaranteed by the Federal Constitution. “Diversity should be celebrated, understood, and respected instead of manipulated for political gains,” they asserted.
Nga concluded by reaffirming his commitment to Malaysia’s unity in diversity, a principle upheld by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. “Unity in diversity defines our way of life. During Hari Raya celebrations, we extend invitations to everyone, including PAS leaders, and hope they will join us in the spirit of harmony,” he stated.
As Malaysia prepares for the upcoming Chinese New Year celebrations, Nga’s message serves as a timely reminder of the strength and beauty of cultural diversity. The challenge lies in transcending political divides to truly embrace unity as a national ethos.
By: Kpost
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