AS Malaysians get ready to celebrate Merdeka tomorrow, an interfaith group has urged Putrajaya to govern the country professionally.

The Malaysian Consultative Council of Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism said the government must take cognisance of the political decisions they make and to uphold the Federal Constitution.

Council president Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim said lawmakers must work together sincerely for the sake of the people.

“Leaders must create an environment that is conducive for all of us to live peacefully, happily, with dignity and allow every citizen the space to fend for those under their care,” he said in a statement.

In the council’s Merdeka Day message, he said there is no room for extremism or racism in Malaysia.

“We are calling for a greater understanding among the races in Malaysia, to build respect and trust and urge all Malaysians to put the country first before personal or political interests, and work towards greater unity for greater progress.”

Leow said Malaysians can stand proud today because the forefathers had played a crucial role in harnessing the greatness of the country.

“It is this Malaysian greatness that we have to cherish so this social and patriotic cohesion can be enhanced and not dampened or be hijacked by unscrupulous groups and individuals out to create unrest and disharmony.

“We need to amplify the voice of logic, reasoning and moderation and drown those that are illogical, extreme and fanatical.”

He lauded this year’s Merdeka slogan Sayangi Malaysiaku: Malaysia Bersih, saying it should not just be a catchy but empty slogan.

“We have to give value and life to it. Malaysians have to continue to strive towards inter-racial solidarity, mutual religious respect and acceptance to face challenges together.

“We also continue in instilling confidence that the country can achieve any ambition as long as there is unity, and bequeathing a prosperous and peaceful Malaysia to future generations.” – August 30, 2019.