OVERCOME DISPUTES WITH REMINDER OF VALUES CHERISHED BY RELIGIONS - MALAYSIAN PM NAJIB

KUALA LUMPUR, May 16 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak
wants Malaysians to overcome disputes and misunderstandings by reminding
themselves of the values that all religions cherish, while taking the route of
moderation.

He said all religions taught the value of kindness and respect towards one
another, regardless of race, ethnicity, creed and background.

Najib said he was able to appreciate the diversified religious celebrations
in the country and observed that all religions also shared common values of
humanity and moderation.

Such values should be cherished by all, he added.

"Although occasionally, disputes and misunderstandings may threaten to
dislodge the peaceful environment we live in, I sincerely believe that we can
overcome them by reminding ourselves of this simple value that all religions
cherish and take the route of moderation," he said in his Wesak Day message
uploaded in his blog www.1malaysia.com here Monday.

Buddhists will be celebrating Wesak Day tomorrow.

In his message, Najib said, all major religious celebrations observed in
Malaysia was an opportunity for him to appreciate the wonderful diversity of the
country and to learn more about the rakyat.

The prime minister said he had witnessed the massive congregations of Hindu
devotees making their pilgrimage to Batu Caves for Thaipusam and had enjoyed the
hospitality of Chinese friends during the Lunar New Year.

During Aidilfitri, Najib said he had personally met and greeted thousands of
Malaysians from all walks of life who came as guests at his open house.

"Wesak Day is no different. For the past two years as prime minister, I have
been fortunate to attend the Wesak Day celebrations with Malaysian Buddhists,
first at Fo Guang Shan Dong Zen Temple in Kuala Langat and last year, at Asoka
Hall in Brickfields.

"In visiting these communities, I am constantly reminded that all religions
share common values of humanity and moderation. To Malaysian Buddhists, have a
happy and meaningful Wesak Day," he added.