No space for religious hatred in the country — Dr Wan Azizah

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said there is no place for religious hatred in the country and, as stakeholders, Malaysians must look after this land to the best of their ability.

In this regard, the deputy prime minister said the government would not hesitate to take action against those who threatened the country’s peace and harmony.

“Fake news, inflammatory messages and messages that stoke religious hatred have no place in Malaysia Baharu (New Malaysia),” she said when addressing a Christmas hi-tea reception at the Luther Centre here Tuesday.

Malaysians, she said, had put their faith in the new government to usher the country into a new era of greater justice and economic prosperity.

“Let me assure you what we’ll do everything in our power to realise the Malaysia Baharu that we envision,” Dr Wan Azizah said. The deputy prime minister noted that in essence, all Malaysians held dear values that strengthened mutual understanding, respect and harmony with each other.

“The unity, camaraderie and friendship among the people of different faiths and ethnicities is one of the strengths of Malaysia,” she said at the event which was also attended by Primary Industries Minister Teresa Kok and Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Hannah Yeoh.

Dr Wan Azizah pointed out that the most beautiful thing about religious celebrations in Malaysia was that people would open their homes to friends and neighbours, strengthening friendships and leaving lasting impressions.

“Freedom of religion in this country has its best expression in people coming together to share in the religious celebrations of each other,” she said.