INTER-RACIAL, INTER-RELIGIOUS CONFLICTS SHOULD BE CHECKED, SAYS FORMER PM

KUALA LUMPUR, July 22 (Bernama) -- Inter-racial and inter-religious
conflicts should be checked to ensure they do not spiral out of control, said former prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

He said there was still no signs there could be a greater understanding
between the Islamic and Western worlds.

"We also know conflicts within the Muslim community has contributed to the
community being weak. It is a stumbling block to the progress of several Islamic
countries," he said after being conferred an honorary doctorate on Islamic
etiquette at National University of Malaysia's convocation in Bangi near here
Tuesday.

Abdullah said the world now was faced with various conflicts concerned with
race and religion, besides challenges in the economy, disease outbreaks, food
crisis and climate change.

"A concerted effort is needed by all to tackle these challenges in the
interest of mankind," he said.

He added that Muslims of the 21st century were more aware of their
shortcomings and were determined to overcome them.

In connection with this, he said the Islam Hadhari (civilisational Islam)
concept could be practised to attain greater understanding and peace among
various peoples.

"The concept gives priority to the acceptance of universal values and is no
way against the tenets of Islam or any other religion," he said.

-- BERNAMA