PETALING Jaya MP Maria Chin Abdullah welcomes an exhibition on interfaith harmony at the Church of Assumption this weekend in her constituency.

She said more of such programmes are needed especially at a time when racial issues are dominating the news.

Maria today launched the event titled “Who is Your Neighbour?” that features exhibits on major religions in Malaysia.

The purpose of the event was to create better understanding and respect among faith communities.

“This exhibition is a good reminder. This is good for all us to be able to sit together in a religious place and talk about the challenges we face.

“Hopefully, this will remind all of us that we have been living together peacefully for many years and must continue to live together as one unit,” she told The Malaysian Insight.

She said it is crucial for Malaysians to live with each other in peace given the country’s racial and religious diversity.

“More should be done to promote racial unity in terms of our beliefs, rights, values, traditions and principles.

“Everyone should play a part and say that they are proud to be Malaysians and show how we appreciate our country, especially when Merdeka is also around the corner.”

She said Malaysia achieved independence due to the unity of all races and the respect that they showed to one another.

“We must continue to have that spirit and look forward, and stop interpreting issues through racial lenses.

“We should instead look at how we can resolve racial issues amicably and not resort to stoking racial sentiments.”

The exhibition is held at the church today and tomorrow, starting at 10am. – August 24, 2019.