KUALA LUMPUR: Celebrating the festivals of other religions in the country does not diminish the faith of Muslims, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said that Malaysia is a model to the Muslim world of how to live in peace and equality with other religions.
"Malaysia is a multiracial country – Islam is the religion of the Federal Constitution but we are a multi-religious country, he said in his speech at the Third International Summit of Religious Leaders 2026 held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre on Friday (June 12), which Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah officiated.
"The peace Malaysia enjoys today is a clear sign that we can live in peace and religious tolerance in harmony.
"Last month, I attended the Wesak celebration and prior to that I had the honour to participate in the preparatory works for Thaipusam. We also celebrate Christmas.
"Different religious celebrations do not deter us from being good Muslims… It does not in any way deter us as steadfast practising Muslims," said Anwar.
He said it was alarming that a religion of peace, tranquility and prosperity was often politicised.
The Prime Minister also criticised those involved in the Iran-US war for breaking the ceasefire and killing the innocent.
"Ceasefires are declared only to be broken even before the ink has dried. Bombardments are carried out even as negotiations are being held.
"That is why the relevance of such a conference and the courage of religious leaders must exert influence and pressure those in power and believe that humanity rests on strong moral and ethical considerations," said Anwar.
A fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran was agreed upon and began on April 8, 2026.
However, the agreement has been highly tenuous and frequently tested by both sides.
The situation remains highly volatile.
Religious leaders and diplomats from many countries attended the two-day summit.
