THE “Solidarity4Peace” participants said they took part today to show that “we can live next to each other without hate or fear”.

The march was a show pf solidarity for the victims of the Christchurch terror attacks on two mosques which left 50 dead.

Ministers, religious leaders and the public took part in the rally.

Christian Federation of Malaysia representative Julian Leow said the rally sent a clear message to the world that Malaysia will not stand for terrorism and hatred.

“Today, we send a message to all Malaysians and the world that we pledge to strengthen the bond of friendship and equality in a country that is united and harmonious,” he said.

Father Lawrence Ng from the St Ignatius Church offered his sympathy to the victims’ families.

“It should not have occurred. That is why we are here. To show that we do not condone violence or any form of racism.

“God created us to love one another and not to hate one another. It is important for all us to realise that it is time to unite.”

Chandra Priasamy from Malaysian Hindu Sanggam said humans are born to respect each other.

“I am sad with the news. We were not born to divide but to unite. There is no need for racism. Racism has no place here. I have my utmost respect to my Muslim friends. They are loving people,” he said.

Malaysian Gurdwaras Council representative Sardar Jagir Singh said the peace and harmony that has existed for so long in the country must be preserved.

“We reject terrorism and hatred, remember, united we stand, divided we fall,” he said.

Bahai Community of Malaysia representative S. Sanggita urged all Malaysians to stay united and put an end to all forms of racial and religious prejudice.

“As a nation, in Malaysia, we were collectively in a state of deep shock and disbelief at the scale of this horrific act of brutality and at the tragic loss of so many innocent lives eight days ago.

“However, we can aspire to be beacons of hope through our words and actions, through clasping each other’s hands, and desiring with all our hearts, friendship with others, just how we see here in Dataran Merdeka (today),” she said.

A representative from the family of Mohd Haziq Mohd Tarmizi, who was killed in the shooting, addressed the crowd.

Haziq’s aunt Zarina Shuib thanked Malaysians and New Zealanders for their help and support.

Rozy Shamsudin who came with his-four-year old son and wife said the incident in New Zealand must not happen again anywhere.

“We came from Kepong to show that we support peace. We can live harmoniously with each other.

“The shooting was a tragedy. It should have not happened and must not happen again,” said Rozy.

New Zealand high commissioner Hunter Nottage who also took the stage expressed his sadness and condolences.

“We mourn together and we stand together in unity. New Zealand is very thankful to Malaysia,” he told the crowd.

The rally started off about 8am with participants marching from Sogo to Dataran Merdeka and ended around 11am. – March 23, 2019.