KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad (pic) said that moderation and respect were crucial in the nation's multi-religious society.
"That in all matters, we need to have moderation in our religion (Islam) and be considerate to those that are different from our religion.
"And that others should also respect our religion (Islam)," he told reporters at the Parliament lobby after the opening of the 14th Parliament on Tuesday (July 17).
Dr Mahathir noted that there would be negative consequences if this approach is not taken.
"If we start to disrespect other religions, then we have to accept the consequences," he added.
He was asked to comment on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V's Royal Address when opening Parliament.
The King had called on the rakyat not to be emotional, allow their minds to be coloured by slander and have narrow and closed minds.
The King added that all parties will make the effort to have sincere clarity and work hard to form a pure and genuine unity.
All parties were also called to find common ground and not differences, in working together to ensure the nation's prosperity and survival.
Asked on the King's statement just before starting his Royal Address and whether it was in reference to a walkout by Opposition MPs on Monday (July 16), an amused Dr Mahathir said it was a joke by the King.
However, he chuckled and added: "Siapa makan cili, dia rasa pedas" (he who eats the chilli will feel its spiciness).
Barisan Nasional and PAS lawmakers had staged a walkout during the swearing in of the Dewan Rakyat Speaker Datuk Mohamad Ariff Md Yusof.
The Opposition lawmakers alleged that the process of appointing the Speaker was not done in accordance with the Dewan Rakyat Standing Orders.
However, Umno's Khairy Jamaluddin and Datuk Seri Anifah Aman did not participate in the walkout.
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