PUTRAJAYA: Economic Affairs Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali today called on Malaysians to continue saying no to bigotry and extremism.

In his Christmas message, Azmin said the festivity was a season of joy and blessings and a time to give and forgive.

"The harmony that we enjoy today is a result of compassion, tolerance and understanding amongst our different communities," the minister said.

In this regard, he highlighted how one could not overstress enough the contributions of Christians towards peace, harmony, prosperity and nation-building.

“I would like to take this opportunity to call upon all Malaysians to join the Christmas festivities. Let us continue to reject the voices of bigotry, extremism and intolerance and embrace the spirit of understanding, moderation and mutual respect.

“To the Christians, I wish you and your family will be blessed this Christmas. May joy and peace fill your homes," Azmin added.

Christians around the globe each year celebrate Christmas on Dec 25, to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ by going to the churches and decorating trees with tinsels coupled with gift giving, among others.

Meanwhile, Minister of Communications and Multimedia Gobind Singh Deo also wished Merry Christmas to all Malaysians celebrating, especially the Christians.

“In conjunction with this Christmas celebration, let us maintain the harmonious relations which have been a special feature among us Malaysians! Merry Christmas!” he said through his Twitter account.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2019/12/550425/reject-bigotry-extremism-and-intolerance-says-azmin