MALAYSIAN COMMUNITY CELEBRATES UNITY IN DIVERSITY
Shareen Han
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
08-Jan-07
MAINTAINING unity through diversity and the practice of mutual respect and tolerance is crucial in the economic and social development of Malaysia, Datuk Ali Abdullah, Malaysian High Commissioner, told a Christmas and New Year's gathering of the Malaysian community in Brunei Darussalam on Saturday.
Datuk Ali said it is imperative to build on the similarities that connect people to achieve peace and stability, and subsequently, to share the common desire to enjoy progress and prosperity.
"Let us respect our differences and (at the same time) strengthen and celebrate our unity in diversity," said Datuk Ali, adding that they are important ingredients to creating a thriving and progressive multi-racial society.
He called on all Malaysians to take a direction of maturity in recognising the spirit of accommodation and to "treat each and every social and religious issue as if it is part of us both the good and bad sides".
In a speech at the gathering organised by Persatuan Warganegara Malaysia (Malaysian Citizens Association), Datuk Ali said that the celebration of religious events, such as Christmas, is also a celebration of freedom of practice, to pray and openly express their faith in Malaysia.
"We must continue to strengthen race relations. Christmas is a national celebration in Malaysia and this was testimony to (our) rich cultural and religious diversity," he said at the gathering that had the theme "Unity and Peace".
The Malaysian High Commissioner also reminded the Malaysian community to respect the laws and regulations of Brunei Darussalam and its people, tradition and sensitivities.
"Malaysians in Brunei have the responsibility to display the good and positive image of Malaysia and strengthen the bond of friendship, goodwill and understanding between the two countries and their people."
He further noted that 2007 is significant to Malaysia with the celebration of its 50th independence anniversary.
"To commemorate the special occasion, the (Malaysian) government has declared 2007 as the Visit Malaysia Year. More than 200 festivities will be held during the year," he said. Meanwhile, Simon D Gelan, president of the Malaysian Citizens Association, said the gathering held at the Chung Hwa Middle School's hall, was to create an opportunity for the interaction between Bruneians and Malaysians and further build a deeper relationship between the two countries.
"The theme 'Unity and Peace' is relevant as it is being preached and cherished by our beloved country," said Simon, who is serving his sixth term as the president of the association.
About 1,000 Malaysian members of the association, which was established more than 10 years ago, attended the function.
They were treated to a buffet dinner, and local as well as Malaysian artistes provided the entertainment throughout the evening.
The gathering also saw lucky winners walking away with flat screen television sets and other prizes.
--Courtesy of The Brunei Times, 8 January 2007