DPM CALLS FOR UNITY OF MUSLIMS

MELAKA (Malaysia), May 15 (Bernama) -- Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin
Yassin Friday called on the leadership of Islamic political parties to unite to
strengthen the "ummah" (Muslims) and their economy.

He said disunity and quarrels among Muslims in the country would lead to its
destruction.

"Logically, the unity of Muslims in the country as the majority is the basis
for the nation's development and strength," he said after performing Friday
prayers at the Al-Rahmah Mosque in Bukit Rambai, here.

Also present were Melaka Chief Minister Mohd Ali Rustam and Youth and Sports
Minister Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Muhyiddin said "political disturbances" were created by irresponsible people
to destroy the country economically as well as in other ways.

"This may also be caused by the different political situation following the
last general election whereby Muslims have become disunited and subscribe to
several groups with varying political ideologies," he said.

He also said that it was important for unity between the Muslims and
non-Muslims to create a stable political situation.

"Such a situation will enable us to continue with our efforts to develop the
country for us to be successful in economic development and so on," he said.

He also said that the government was adopting serious measures to overcome
the economic downturn brought on by the financial crisis in several developed
countries.

Muhyiddin, who is on his first official visit to Melaka as the deputy prime
minister, also cut the "pulut kuning" (yellow glutinous rice) in conjunction
with his 62nd birthday Friday.
-- BERNAMA