Najib: We must respect all

Moderation can only succeed when we understand each other, says PM

PUTRAJAYA: Moderation will only work if there is mutual respect and understanding among the people, says Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

The Prime Minister said in a diverse country like Malaysia, moderation or wasatiyyah was necessary.

“In a country with such diversity of faiths and ethnicities, to understand and appreciate our differences is in fact enriching.

“Indeed, it makes Malaysia what it is. This is not always easy for everyone as moderation is not a soft option. It is something we have to strive and make a part of our lives,” the Prime Minister said at the launch of the Global Movement of Moderates Foundation (GMMF) website and publications here yesterday.

Najib said he has been championing moderation as it is “the path of human perfection” and an idea taught by Islam and all other religions.

“Wasatiyyah carries the message of doing good with steadfastness, justice, brotherhood and righteousness, as well as the rejection of all forms of evil, such as extremism. It also enables us to see religion as something that unites, rather than divides us.

“We are happy when our fellow countrymen of other faiths celebrate their festivals, and we wish them well. That is how it should be as it is a manifestation of the path of moderation,” he said.

On the fight against terrorism and extremism, he said working on both domestic and international fronts has helped Malaysia tackle the issue and prevent it from affecting the country's stability.

The introduction of a slew of counterterrorism legislation had also helped maintain peace and order, he added.

Najib also commended GMMF for its push for peaceful coexistence, governance and rule of law, conflict resolution, countering violent extremism and opposing Islamophobia, adding that this was among reasons why Malaysia’s leadership promoting moderation was recognised globally.