SHAH ALAM — The PAS Central Ulama Council hosted its inaugural interfaith round-table dialogue in an effort to strengthen harmony and mutual understanding among Malaysia’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
The “Peace & Harmony” tea session, held in Shah Alam, brought together approximately 200 representatives from various faith groups, including Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Christianity, and Buddhism. The event reflects an expanded engagement strategy by PAS and the opposition Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition toward non-Muslim communities.
A Shared Vision for National Unity
Opening the forum, Terengganu Chief Minister and PN leader Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar emphasized that cultural and religious diversity should be viewed as a national asset rather than a point of division.
“Malaysia is our shared home. Although we differ in religion, race, culture, and background, we share the same homeland and the same future,” Samsuri said.
He noted that diversity, when managed with wisdom and respect, becomes a key source of strength for the nation. Samsuri urged attendees to build trust by learning about one another’s beliefs and traditions, which helps eliminate misconceptions and prejudice.
“Religions may differ, but enmity is unnecessary. Races may differ, but prejudice is unnecessary. Opinions may differ, but mutual respect must remain,” he added.
Open Floor for Community Dialogue
Organizers provided participants with a platform to ask direct questions and exchange candid views with PAS leaders on religious, racial, and social matters.
As the first event of its kind spearheaded by the PAS Central Ulama Council, the initiative signals a deliberate move by the party to engage directly with multi-ethnic civil society and listen to ground-level perspectives.
Former minister and PAS central committee member Tan Sri Annuar Musa also attended and addressed the gathering.
