MUHIBBAH

Extract from the Star.

Saturday August 30, 2008 MYT 8:19:11 PM
Merdeka gathering of religious leaders to be held annually
By MAZWIN NIK ANIS


PUTRAJAYA: For the first time since Malaysia achieved independence 51 years ago, a gathering of religious leaders representing various faiths was held Saturday. Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi wants such a gathering be held annually as part of the country's merdeka celebration.

The Prime Minister said the inaugural gathering was a historical moment for the country as heads of various religions and communities gathered in the same hall to mingle.

"This is a historical and momentous time for all of us and I want similar gatherings be held every year when we celebrate Merdeka in years to come.

"We will find ways to improve and modify the gathering and see if there are opportunities for discussions to be held among the religious leaders. This is a perfect way to strengthen the bond among fellow Malaysians and we should not forego this golden opportunity," he said.

Abdullah was speaking at a "muhibbah" gathering attended by some 300 religious leaders and representatives of various faith groups, organised by the Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Ministry.

Present were minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal, National Unity and Integration department director-general Datuk Azman Amin Hassan and Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddishm, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism president Datuk A. Vaithilingam.

The Prime Minister said that efforts and opportunities must be sought among religious leaders to meet, eat at the same table as well as exchange views as this is a good way to know and understand each other's religious perspective better.

"This will also help promote muhibbah (unity), tolerance and respect, which is extremely important in a multi-religion, multi-ethnic society like Malaysia," he said.