PARTI Bangsa Malaysia (PBM) has called for all Malaysians to say “no” to any form of racism and put all differences aside to work as one for the greater good of all Malaysians and future generations.
According to its president-designate Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin, multiracialism and multiculturalism are the cornerstones of the nation and over the past week, prominent figures have reminded the people how important religious tolerance is.
She was referring to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who on Sunday (June 12), called on members of Keluarga Malaysia (Malaysian Family) to adopt the concept of tasamuh – an Arabic term meaning “tolerance” or “open-mindedness”.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the National Al-Quran Recitation and Memorisation Competition (MTHQK) 1443H/2022, he said this meant that there should be an attitude of acceptance and mutual respect for the various religions and cultures practised in the country.
He said the diversity of cultures and customs in Malaysia was a uniqueness that should be celebrated, thus creating a peaceful and prosperous society.
“As a political party rooted in multiracialism and multiculturalism, PBM strongly welcomes the recent calls for Muslims to adopt tasamuh so long as they do not infringe on Islamic principles,” Zuraida said on this matter.
“This is in line with the “Keluarga Malaysia” concept, which has become a hallmark of the Prime Minister’s administration. Racial tolerance and understanding are vital for the future prosperity of our beloved nation.”
Prior to the Prime Minister’s call, the Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah also asked all Malaysians to differentiate between cultural and religious norms, while Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah said Malays should be open to multiculturalism.
“Today we live in a globalised world and to tap into the immense potential globalisation has to offer, we cannot hide ourselves from the fast-changing world and progress around us. We need to reach out and interact and learn from those who are different from us,” Zuraida remarked.
“This will expand our worldview and help us establish global linkages that will accelerate our personal growth as well as allow us to reap its socio-economic benefits whether personally or collectively as a nation. Xenophobic tendencies and sentiments not rooted in reality can do us much harm.”
Zuraida further stressed that Malaysia has no place for bigotry, and that the country’s founding fathers have laid the foundation to ensure that this plural country continues to thrive on diversity.
The future starts with us today, we are all part of “Keluarga Malaysia”, and we need to further strengthen our multicultural and multiracial foundation and remain strong and united to face all challenges ahead,” she concluded. – June 15, 2022
