KOTA KINABALU: Despite the diversity in terms of faith and cultural practices, unity will remain the people’s best asset to move forward and make the nation pros per, said Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Aman.In fact, he said, unity among the people would become stronger with the 1Malaysia concept introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak.

“Through 1Malaysia, every citizen is taking part in defining the country’s future. As envisioned by the prime minister, 1Malaysia is setting the stage for us to move towards a better tomorrow despite our differences by upholding values like respect, friendship and understanding,” he said in his Christmas message here yesterday.

Musa also said that Malaysians were fortunate to be able to freely hold religious celebrations knowing that the country promotes religious tolerance and cultural harmony.

“Just like we celebrate other religious festivities, Malaysians, regardless of faith and race, are in the spirit of harmony and exchanging greetings to mark Christmas Day.

“Christmas is an occasion for friends and relatives to visit one another and the warmth that Malaysians are famous for is reflected in the way everyone is welcomed at open houses, making this tradition a basis for solidarity,” he said.

In celebrating the occasion, Musa also hoped that the people would not forget the less fortunate members of society by lending a helping hand and making Christmas meaningful.

“Kind hearted people take time off their hectic schedules to share the Christmas joy with the needy.

“I am glad to note that many companies and individuals are spreading Christmas cheer at welfare homes, orphanages and centres for the disabled, proving that the caring society concept is well and alive in Sabah and elsewhere in Malaysia,” he added.

Musa also extended his wishes and appreciation to the security forces who sacrificed the opportunity to be with their loved ones to protect the country so that the people could celebrate in peace and safety. – Bernama