UNITY REMAINS THE THEME FOR AIDILFITRI MESSAGES

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- Unity and harmony remain the theme for
Aidilfitri messages as leaders, representing the various communities, continue
to urge Malaysians to strengthen ties in line with the 1Malaysia concept.

They urged the people to make use of the joyous occasion to focus on
nurturing national unity.

Former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and wife Dr Siti Hasmah
Mohd Ali hoped that Muslims would celebrate the arrival of Syawal in merriment
but in a moderate way.

He said that the people should realise that there were "many less fortunate
people among us."

In his message posted on his blog, Dr Mahathir also reminded those going for
balik kampung to be careful and to drive carefully.

In KOTA KINABALU, Chief Minister Musa Aman called on the people
not to be influenced by certain quarters who were bent on fanning racial and
religious sentiment.

He called on Malaysians in Sabah to appreciate and understand the meaning of
1Malaysia as the basis to strengthen national unity.

"The slogan provides us with a strong foundation to remain united even at a
time when we are faced with challenges," he said in his Aidilfitri message.

Musa said Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak had acknowledged that
Sabah was a model for the 1Malaysia concept as the people were united despite
its cultural diversity.

"The government always practises tolerance and strives to listen, understand
and resolve the problems faced by the people," he said.


In KUALA LUMPUR, 1Malaysia Foundation trustee Lee Lam Thye called on
the people to strengthen friendship.

He said that national unity was one of the factors which propelled the
country to success and that it was the people's responsibility to contribute
towards enhancing national unity.

It was therefore important that all should embark on untiring efforts to
forge unity and harmony, he said.

PPP president M. Kayveas said Malaysians should be grateful as the
Aidilfitri this year remained a joyous occasion despite the country facing
economic and health challenges.

"Let us enhance our ability towards ensuring harmony among the people," he
said.

-- BERNAMA