Say no to bigotry and extremism, Joseph Kurup tells Malaysians by Simon Khoo - The STAR

SUBANG JAYA: Moderation is the only way to celebrate diversity and promote justice, Tan Sri Joseph Kurup (pix) said. 

The Minister in the Prime Minister's Department said only through a moderate attitude, Malaysia could remain a harmonious and peaceful nation. 

"We need to have zero tolerance for religious bigotry and extremism. 

"Despite our differences, we are one. Let's sacrifice a little so that we can all be balanced, more grounded in dealing with our emotions and continue to show respect towards one another," he said in his speech during the launching of the #SaySomethingNice campaign at Inti International College Subang here on Tuesday. 

Themed "Creating Million Moments of Unity", #SaySomethingNice, a project by Zubedy, aims at using the 17-day period between Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16, as a time of peace and positivity. 

Kurup said it saddened him when racial and religious bigotry took centrestage and worsened of late. 

He said Malaysians should not let the present prevailing situation to be the future of the country. 

"This campaign celebrates the best of Malaysians. I hope the values taught can be practised and later, be made a culture of our own. 

"Let it be known that Malaysians are people of love, peace and unity," he said, adding that the people should put aside their differences and live by the concept of "unity in diversity." 

Kurup said despite the many challenges, Malaysians coming together could change the faith of the country. 

Managing director Anas Zubedy urged more Malaysians to act and do positive things to unite the people. 

"We must never give up and continue to create a positive spirit and leave behind negativity," he said.

Anas thanked the media for joining hands in concerted efforts to encourage and foster the spirit of unity and patriotism among Malaysians. 

He also called upon the private sector to come forward to support such initiatives, citing the recent launching of the #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign, jointly organised by Eco World Development Group Bhd and Star Media Group Bhd. 

Inti International University & Colleges chief executive officer Rohit Sharma said the college was proud to be part of the meaningful campaign. 

"Besides academic excellence, it is Inti's aspiration to provide an avenue for our students to be actively involved in impacting the community," he said. 

Through #SaySomethingNice, Malaysians can write a kind message to their fellow Malaysians on posters which can be put up anywhere.

The organiser hopes to collect more than a million messages and positively impact the urban poor, marginalised groups and all Malaysians through some 50 projects.

article was taken from The STAR