Malaysians must preserve racial and religious harmony — Lam Thye

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LABUAN: The deputy chairman of the National Unity Consultative Council (NUCC), Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, said that all Malaysians irrespective of race, religion and political affiliation must preserve racial and religious harmony.

In his dialogue session with leaders from various bodies on Saturday at the Peace Park here, he said that all forms of extremism, which could undermine inter-racial and inter-religious peace and harmony, must be rejected.

“This is the time for all ordinary and patriotic Malaysians to stand up and be counted in furthering the cause for a united Malaysian nation. We should not make inflammatory and incendiary statements, which are provocative and can lead to conflict and tension with serious consequences affecting peace, harmony and national unity.

“This is not the time to incite and inflame racial and religious hatred leading to tension and inter-religious conflict,” he said.

Lee said further that as responsible and patriotic Malaysians, it is the citizens of this country’s responsibility to work and strive for peace and harmony, whilst refraining from acts of provocation and violence, which could result in conflict and chaos.

“What this country needs today are not ethnic heroes, but more on ethnic bridge builders and also ambassadors for peace and harmony, those who can help to foster respect and reconciliation among the citizens.

“Looking at the serious racial and religious polarization in the country today, I am more and more convinced that Malaysians must carry the responsibility of building and reinforcing unity, as in the end, we will be the one who will decide the destiny of our beloved nation.

“If politicians have not succeeded in building unity, then it should be the people’s initiative to do so, as unity building goes beyond politics,” he said.

Lee then explained that racial harmony and inter-racial unity, which was crucial for this country’s multi-racial, multi-religious and multi-cultural nation, are all about people and how they perceive and interact among each other.

“Too much emphasis has been given to the role of politics where the politicians must ensure the harmony among the various races in this country. However, after many times, Malaysians are disappointed and even disenchanted when certain politicians play the race card to gain popularity.

“What is even more disturbing is the emergence of race-based politics and the playing up of racial issues unashamedly by some without realizing the consequences of their actions.

“It is now the time for the people to innovate and take initiatives to break any racial divide that exists and go beyond politics to strive towards unity,” he said.

Lee said that to prevent Malaysians from drifting apart and to heal a divided nation, people of all races, especially those concerned about the future of this nation, must be prepared to speak up with calmness and firmness against all forms of racial and religious extremism.

“The most enduring way to establish good race relation is the need for Malaysians of different races and relations to cultivate and nurture mutual understanding and genuine respect for each other.

“Multi-racial living and community are part of our history and heritage. They have become a key source of racial integration for years and have certainly played a role in making Malaysia a harmonious place to live, learn, work and play.

“Everyone has a role to play by giving greater emphasis to the idea of Malaysian oneness and togetherness based on the great values and virtues taught by all the religions and races instead of harping on and exploiting ethnic sentiments,” he said.

Lee concluded that unity in diversity was a priceless gift that must be cherished by all Malaysians. Every peace-loving Malaysians regardless of race should be fully committed to promoting a culture of peace, harmony and unity.