Treat differences as an advantage when dealing with crises, says PM
KUALA LUMPUR: The differences among Malaysians should be an advantage rather than a weakness, and similarities a source of strength when facing the economic and health crises, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob told Malaysians today. He said that as a family, everyone needs to work together to revive the country…
KUALA LUMPUR: The differences among Malaysians should be an advantage rather than a weakness, and similarities a source of strength when facing the economic and health crises, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob told Malaysians today.
He said that as a family, everyone needs to work together to revive the country and adapt to new norms.
“Let us forge and strengthen unity with the bond of love and tolerance as a big Malaysian Family.
“Whoever we are, whether a father, mother, child, neighbour, employee, head of an office, community leader, religious leader or political leader, we have to play the role to revive the country for the well-being of the Malaysian Family.”
He said this in a special message broadcast live on RTM1 today in conjunction with the Maulidur Rasul celebration.
Ismail said the rise and fall of a race and country are dependent on their unity and solidarity.
“Muhammad, for example, made a treaty with the tribes living near Medina to improve understanding and renew relations based on the principle of truth, as well as to avoid chaos and clashes of power.
“Don’t let differences of opinion and approach cause us to lose our value of ukhuwah (brotherhood) and spirit of unity that have been established for so long,” he said.
Based on the belief that Muhammad is the best role model for mankind when he became the head of state in Medina, Ismail said the government would continue to emulate the Prophet’s initiatives for the prosperity of the Malaysian Family.
“To this end, policies, initiatives and incentives will ensure that no Malaysians are left behind to enjoy the wealth and prosperity of the country,” he said.
According to Ismail, Muhammad introduced Sahifah Madinah or the Constitution of Medina for political stability, with elements of togetherness and mutual respect between the communities, thus uniting them as one family.
“The stability of the country in terms of sustainable health and well-being as well as economic prosperity were the elements that were given special attention by Muhammad as the caliph. The Prophet in his administrative policy also prioritised the welfare of everyone in Medina.”
In the context of humanity, Ismail said Muhammad was a model in upholding the brotherhood of humanity when he sought to eliminate any form of discrimination based on religion, race, skin colour or descent.
“This shows that Islam is a religion that is built on the principle of takrim al-insan or honouring of humanity.
“The principle is also consistent with Article 12 of the Federal Constitution that confers the right to education to all citizens without discriminating on grounds of religion, race, background or place of birth,” he said. — Free Malaysia Today