Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail said there is no place for religious hatred in the country and, as stakeholders, Malaysians must look after this land to the best of their ability.
In this regard, the deputy prime minister said the government would not hesitate to take action against those who threatened the country’s peace and harmony.
“Fake news, inflammatory messages and messages that stoke religious hatred have no place in Malaysia Baharu (New Malaysia),” she said when addressing a Christmas hi-tea reception at the Luther Centre in Petaling Jaya yesterday.
Malaysians, she said, had put their faith in the new government to usher the country into a new era of greater justice and economic prosperity.
“Let me assure you what we’ll do everything in our power to realise the Malaysia Baharu that we envision,” Dr Wan Azizah said.
The event was spearheaded by the Christian Federation of Malaysia, Council of Churches of Malaysia and other relevant parties.
It was also attended by Primary Industries Minister Teresa Kok and Deputy Women, Family and Community Development Minister Hannah Yeoh.
On a lighter note, the Woman, Family and Community Development Minister talked about how her convent education instilled in her the values that she carries today, adding that she can also quote The Lord’s Prayer.
“I entered the convent at Primary 1 and as a seven-year-old, I was mesmerised by the blue-eyed Irish nuns,” she said.
On celebrating Christmas, she reminded Malaysians of different races and religions to take this opportunity to visit their Christian friends and share the merriment of the festival.
“This is indeed one of the unique features of Malaysian life. The unity, camaraderie and friendship among people of different faiths and ethnicities are our nation’s strength.
“The most beautiful thing about religious celebrations in this country is that people open their homes to their friends and neighbours, thus strengthening bonds among them.” she said.