Extremism and aggressive behaviour such as disgracing other faiths are not the principles of mainstream religions, said MCA president Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

Speaking at a Wesak Day celebration, Liow said all religions promoted peace among all races and the love of oneself and care for others.

He warned that disputes and confrontations – brought by the lack of tolerance and understanding among different religions – were an insult to human civilisation and could eventually lead to world disaster.

“To take revenge, to counter violence with violence is not how we should live in this world, especially in a multi-racial and multi-religious country like Malaysia.

“We should take measures to prevent extremism from taking root in the country,” said Liow during the celebration at the Malaysia Buddhist Association here yesterday.

Supporting the call by the United Nations for religious leaders to discuss strategies to curb violence and extremism, he urged Buddhist organisations to step up efforts to instil positive energy and solve religious disputes through non-violence.

This year’s theme for Wesak Day celebration is “Promote Social Harmony through Buddhist Unity”, which emphasises promoting mutual understanding and respect among Buddhists and non-Buddhists.

This was also a principle that MCA had long strived to uphold, said Liow.

“We embrace this spirit of unity – within and outside the party – irrespective of race, religion and background.

“MCA will go all out to protect the freedom of religion and rights of the people while promoting harmonious coexistence and sharing of political power,” he said.

Earlier, during another Wesak Day celebration at Kwan Inn Teng temple in Petaling Jaya, Liow encouraged people to live up to the Buddhist values of creating a kind, compassionate, caring, peaceful and harmonious society.

- The Star -