1MALAYSIA WILL MAKE FOR A MORE PEACEFUL, HARMONIOUS MALAYSIA - PM

KUANG (Malaysia), Sept 2 (Bernama) -- Najib Razak Tuesday said the 1Malaysia
concept was Islamic in character, especially its content and objectives, which
were similar to the Constitution of Medina.

The prime minister said when put into practice, 1Malaysia would make the
country more peaceful and its society more harmonious.

He said the Constitution of Medina (also known as the Charter of Medina) was
the first Islamic constitution which prioritised and protected the religion,
gave justice to all communities and protected the minorities, and allowed
religious freedom, all of which were principles contained in 1Malaysia.

"Therefore, we must do what is best for the Muslim community and be fair to
the non-Muslims. Hopefully, this way, we will be devout Muslims and this is also
part of 1Malaysia," he said at a breaking of fast in Kampung Setia in Kuang, a
town in Gombak district of southern state of Selangor in Peninsular Malaysia.

The Constitution of Medina was a political agreement made by Prophet
Muhammad with the people of Medina who comprised various groups, including the
Muhajirin, Ansar and Jews so as to forge understanding, mutual respect and unity
among them.

On fasting, Najib said the third tenet of Islam was a challenge for Muslims,
including the leaders, because they were able to feel what the destitutes and
poor went through, and so should make them realise to help the less fortunate.

"If the spirit to struggle for and champion the plight of the destitutes and
poor is imbibed, they will become more respected and better loved leaders.

"This is what we should strive for as leaders...we must be prepared to
continuously serve the people, especially the poor and needy."

He said Muslims must avoid being arrogant and greedy, but instead be humble,
caring and loving, besides doing good thing like forging and maintaining unity.

Najib and his wife Rosmah Mansor performed Maghrib, Isyak and Tarawih
prayers with those present at the breaking of fast.

The prime minister also handed out Ramadan contributions to 120 senior
citizens, the poor and hardcore poor, as well as 40 mosques to carry out
religious activities during the holy month.

-- BERNAMA