KUALA LUMPUR: The proposed interfaith dialogue must strive for harmonious relations among various races, said Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim.

“It is important that various races in the country hold friendly discussions by delving into Islamic, Christian, Hindu and other religions’ views.

“We are not converting to other religions but to understand one another religious’ culture better. That is important.

“I feel that the discussion and understanding of one another culture and religion can enhance harmony. Otherwise, we will continue to live in distrust and prejudice of one another,” he told reporters after receiving Sarawak Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Dr George Chan Hong Nam here today.

Rais urged the people to remain calm over the recent High Court ruling allowing a Catholic weekly to use the word “Allah” in its Malay-language edition, pending the hearing of an appeal.

“Let the court decide. Do not make your own judgement based on political expediency or emotion,” he added.

In another development, Rais welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s suggestion that local writers should be given preference over foreign authors when selecting literary works for schools and institutions of higher learning.

“This is music to our ears.. We welcome this. We have been waiting for this kind of policy. As such, prominent local writers must redeem themselves,” he said.

On his meeting with Chan, who is also Sarawak Tourism and Heritage Minister, Rais said although Sarawak was endowed with various tourism products, lack of promotional campaigns resulted in low tourist arrivals.

“As such Sarawak should step up its tourism promotional campaigns to woo more tourists,” added Rais.

Courtesy: TheMalaysianInsider