Come together as one, Najib tells Malaysians

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HAPPY WESAK DAY: Three Buddhist monks (from left) Rev Piyarathero Thero, Rev Shieh Wen and Rev Shieh Lin lighting candles in conjunction with Wesak Day at the Kuching Buddhist Society temple in Kuching last night. Wesak Day – which is observed across the world today – is the most significant day in the Buddhist calendar and is a day of joy, peace and reflection. — Photo by Jeffery Mostapa

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, in conjunction with Wesak Day, called on Malaysians regardless of race or ethnicity to come together as one.

He said Malaysia was growing steadily towards Vision 2020, and stressed that it was possible to achieve only if the people could be united in times of peace and difficulties.

“There will be many obstacles for us to overcome in the next few years but I am confident that we as a nation can do it,” he said in his his Wesak Day message uploaded in his blog www.1malaysia.com yesterday. The prime minister also expressed hope for the people to set aside their differences at all levels of society.

“If there was one thing I could wish for our country, it would be for everyone to set aside their differences for the greater good. For neighbours to treat each other with kindness, spouses with love and siblings with kindness.

“For children to be respectful and parents to be nurturing. And of course for the people to prosper under this government, and for politicians to serve them to the best of their abilities. Here’s wishing all Malaysian Buddhists a Happy Wesak Day,” he said. As for the celebration today, Najib said there would be an abundance of joy, peace and forgiveness as people were seeking blessings for themselves and their loved ones.

He said volunteers were already working hard in preparing for Wesak Day which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and the passing of Gautama Buddha.

“All over Malaysia, temples will be bustling with activity as devotees flock to attend the various activities. Streets will be packed with processions of beautiful floats,” he added. — Bernama