People must not be swayed by extremism - Salleh

People are advised not to be easily swayed by extremist ideologies which can jeopardise peace and security in the country.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak said people should adopt a moderate ideology in order to maintain the unity in the country.

"We should prioritise stability and peace in the country, practicing a moderate ideology rather than extremism," he said at the convocation ceremony for Children of KEMAS kindergarten, Kota Belud Parliamentary in Dewan Tun Said, here Friday.

He said the emphasis on racial and religious integration and the concept of showing acceptance and respect for differences among people must be preserved in order to maintain the prevailing peace.

What is happening in several foreign countries like Syria, Pakistan and Iraq could easily occur in this country if people did not pay attention to religious and racial coherence, Salleh said.

The future of children would be affected and they would become refugees in their own country.

"We must also give credence to the cause of the security forces to protect national security from external and internal threats because there is no guarantee of lasting peace if there is no integration among the people," he added.

Meanwhile, at the event Friday, Salleh said the government was providing infrastructure and provisions to give the best early childhood education. About 800 children from Tabika Kemas received their scrolls.

He added that in appreciation of the sacrifices made by teachers who were willing to serve in rural areas, the government had agreed that those who were employed on contract would be absorbed to permanent positions.