Religious leaders in multi-ethnic Malaysia have welcomed Premier Najib Razak's plan for a national reconciliation and expressed hope that it will be inclusive and address the needs of the people.
The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism president Tan Hoe Chieow said Malaysians should be united by working towards racial harmony and religious understanding together.
"We welcome the initiative to promote racial unity as well as moderation in all religion to fight religious and racial extremism."
"Our undivided support will drive the nation forward," said Tan, in response to Najib's pledge for national reconciliation to tackle extremism and racism as well as promote moderation among Malaysians.
He expressed hope that the plan will be inclusive and address the needs of the people.
Malaysia Hindu Sangam president R S Mohan Shah said the Government should tackle current problems before any reconciliation could take place.
"If a council is set up to look into the reconciliation programme, priority should be given to religious leaders or non-governmental organisations," he said.
Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) chairman Rev Dr Eu Hong Seng said the programme should involve all parties and races.
The reconciliation process would not work if the Government practises selective prosecution, he said.
Malaysia's 29 million people comprise 60 per cent Malays, all Muslims, 25 perc ent ethnic Chinese and 8 per cent ethnic Indians.
