Wesak Day a hallmark of our democracy - PM Najib

Here is the full statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak wishing all Malaysians a Happy Wesak Day.

Tomorrow, our Buddhist friends will be celebrating Wesak. A special day for Buddhists around the world to honour the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Buddha. This celebration is also the hallmark of our democracy – that freedom of religion is a significant factor in the cohesion of Malaysia's creed. It has become one of the focal points of our way of life.

Peace, service and recognition of common humanity are not only universal values shared by Buddhist devotees, but they are also the very same shared values that bind us all together as Malaysians.

It is also a day on which special efforts are made to bring happiness to others, especially the disadvantaged. That we care for the sick, feed the hungry and welcome the stranger no matter where they come from. That we should treat others as we would want to be treated.

And we must uphold these important values because if we stay together and help each other, we will build a stronger and better Malaysia for all of us.

This occasion gives us an opportunity to commemorate the many contributions of Buddhists to our progress and to recommit ourselves to building a brighter future for all communities, cultures, and religions.

Happy Wesak Day!