Wesak is the holiest day in Buddhism. Buddhists celebrate Wesak Day to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and death and his passing into nirvana of Gautama Buddha. The significance of Wesak lies with the Buddha and his universal peace message to mankind.
Wishing Malaysian Buddhists a Happy Wesak Day, the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi hoped that the mutual understanding and solidarity between the various races would be further enhanced so that the country would continue to progress in peace.
"The constitution guarantees the freedom to practice any faith although Islam remains as the official religion." He admitted that religion continues to be a sensitive issue in this multicultural nation but said he hoped that conflicts could continue to be resolved peacefully.
The determination and solidarity of the Malaysian people in rejecting extremist elements as well as their desire to uphold peace and harmony had enabled the country to ensure that the people of various races and religious background live in peace.
"Malaysia is most fortunate as the people of various races and religions in the country can live in peace and harmony all this while.”
Realizing the sensitivity attached to religion which calls for tolerance among the people of various races and religions, he said the government, through the Ministry of Unity, Arts, Culture and Heritage, had held discussions with associations representing the various faiths in the country.
The discussions aimed to find the needs of the various religions besides enhancing relations and understanding between the people of various races and religions.
"I hope that such an approach will enable us to resolve whatever issues or problems amicably and in the spirit of comradeship,” Abdullah said.
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