Best wishes for the season!

THE Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Chris-tianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST) would like to take this opportunity to wish fellow Malaysians of the Chris-tian faith a joyful Christmas celebration.

While the belief in God is a personal matter, this should not stop us from being happy when fellow citizens of a different faith celebrate a day which is significant to his or her religious beliefs.

Racial, religious and cultural diversity will always be a pillar of strength for Malaysia. Toge-ther we must continue to uphold it and not fall for the disruptive tune of those who want to distract and divide us. In fact, it is long overdue that we move on from mere tolerance to celebrating our unique differences.

A happy and prosperous nation is one where its citizens are united, live with honour, confidence and dignity, guided by inclusive, stable and trusted leadership which treats every citizen justly and fairly. It is not one that divides people or mocks or insults another for a different religious belief.

The MCCBCHST therefore prays that Malaysia remains blessed with peace, harmony and prosperity. Merry Christmas!

DAO ZHANG TAN HOE CHIEOW

President, Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism (MCCBCHST)

President, Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia (FTAM)

VENERABLE CHUAN YUAN

Deputy President, MCCBCHST

Asst Dharma Propagation Officer, Malaysian Buddhist Association (MBA)

Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim

Vice-president, MCCBCHST

Honorary Treasurer, Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM)

GANESH BABU RAO

Vice-president, MCCBCHST

Deputy President, Malaysia Hindu Sangam (MHS)

SARDAR JAGIR SINGH

Vice-president, MCCBCHST

President, Malaysian Gurdwaras Council (MGC)