MELAKA: Community and religious leaders have been urged to uphold Melaka's peace and harmony by fostering mutual respect and recognising diversity as a valuable strength.
Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh (pic) also encouraged people of all faiths to work closely together and focus on their respective religious development in a way that promotes unity and progress.
Speaking at a buka puasa event in Tanjung Bidara in Alor Gajah here on Thursday (March 13), he stressed that harmony among the communities is essential for the state's continued progress.
Ab Rauf also cautioned the people against making hurtful or disparaging remarks about other faiths as it could lead to ill feelings and disrupt social unity.
"For example, I was born as a Muslim, and I strongly believe that my path is the righteous one. Similarly, those of another faith would feel the same about their own beliefs.
"It is not for us to declare others as wrong or to make disrespectful comments," he said.
Ab Rauf said no one has the right to criticise or make negative statements about faiths other than their own.
Instead, he called for a spirit of acceptance, where people uphold their convictions while respecting the beliefs of others.
"Melaka promotes religious freedom and tolerance, which have united us for generations, and we will continue to uphold these values.
"Our respective faiths should serve as the foundation for kindness, cooperation and nation-building.
"We all share the common goal of building a better future for our state and country," he said, adding that Melaka can continue to be a model of peaceful coexistence and sustainable development.
