Remain united to maintain peace and harmony - PM

Christmas is a day of peace, joy and delight no matter where you are - be it in the Peninsula, Sabah, Sarawak or anywhere in the world said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in his Christmas message that was posted on his 1Malaysia blog.

"Malaysia is a country like no other. Unity in diversity has always been our hallmark. I am grateful that we are able to celebrate every religious festival in harmony.

"Indeed, this is only possible as our true strength lies in our acceptance of each other's differences. We are at our strongest and most majestic when we are united as one," said Najib as posted on his www.1Malaysia.com.my blog.

When we look around, we discover that we are extremely fortunate as there are certain places in the world that are constantly being afflicted by disharmony and discord.

This is simply because people of different faiths and beliefs stubbornly refuse to accept their differences, he said.

"Notwithstanding the unfortunate circumstances of such nations, there have been attempts to break us apart. Time and time again, we have been tested. But we have always - by virtue of our patience, acceptance and understanding - emerged victorious.

"Let us once again come together - to do all that we can - and ensure that Malaysia remains as a land of harmony and great opportunities, a nation for which we are so thankful," he said.

Let us count our blessings and also strive to be considered as a blessing to those around us. Keep alive the Malaysian spirit of visiting one another, and bear in mind the teachings that remind all of us to respect each other's belief.

Let us look forward with hope and confidence and be assured that all have a rightful place in the future of this beautiful nation of ours.

"I wish you all a very merry and meaningful Christmas," he said.