Continue to practise wassatiyah concept in views, life - Abang Johari

He said Islam always uphold justice as a principle, whether for Muslims or non-Muslims.

"I believe non Muslims can accept the leadership of a Muslim leader because as Muslims we always strive to give fairness to all, Muslims and non Muslims.

"Islam has forbidden its followers to deny the rights of other races, in all forms, small or big," he said in his 2017 Hari Raya Aidilfitri message.

Abang Johari said the people of Sarawak were fortunate because the state continued to be able to maintain its social and religious harmony that had been built for so long.

According to him, the people in Sarawak did not not fight against each other on religious and social ties as the spirit of mutual respect had become a community culture in the state.

"It is undeniable that as a community of diverse religions, cultures and races, we have differences of opinions and views in many matters and issues.

"Alhamdulillah so far our differences in many aspects have not become a barrier among us because we are able to discuss rationally and find similarities, seek solutions as a consensus and uphold to a give-and-take attitude," he said.

Abang Johari also wanted all Sarawakians, regardless of race or lineage to work together to maintain the unity and harmony of the people in the state.

"We will not allow anyone to poison the minds of the people and express feelings of malice and envy among each other. Disunity and disputes among the people will not benefit anyone," he added.