SEREMBAN: Malaysia has been able to enjoy rapid development thanks to the people’s ability to practise tolerance in a multiracial society, said Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad tonight.
He said the value of tolerance should continue to be nurtured and inculcated among Malaysians to ensure that the country remained successful and prosperous.
“We can see many other countries plunge into war despite having the same religion among its society.
"Many were killed and injured. Their country was destroyed and this happened when there's no tolerance between us.
"Living in a country with different races religions and culture, we must always be tolerant towards each other," he said during the national-level Chinese New Year Open House 2019 at Dataran Centrio, Seremban 2, here.
Dr Mahathir also said Malaysia was peaceful despite the fact that its population comprised three major races — the Malays, Chinese and Indians — as well as the various ethnic groups in Sabah and Sarawak, and the Orang Asli.
All races, he said, not only managed to work well together but also celebrated each others’ festive occasions.
“It does not mean that we practise the teachings of other religions but we are allowed to respect others’ religious festivals.
"This reflects the good bond we have with each other. It's the reason why people in Malaysia can live peacefully and, at the same time, develop the country," he said in his speech.
Thousands of people attended the event which saw guests from all walks of life soaking in the carnival-like atmosphere and enjoying the wide range of entertainment.
Performances included a lion dance performance by the world's best lion dance group, 'Kumpulan Tarian Singa Muar', dance performances from the Istana Budaya dance group and Hael Husaini, among others.
Also present were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Mohamaddin Ketapi, Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Finance Minister Lim Guan Eng and Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.
