KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Umno chief Datuk Seri Bung Moktar Radin has called on Muslims to use the month of Ramadan to strengthen unity within Malaysia's diverse communities.

       Speaking at the last stop of the party’s Jelajah Ramadan programme, a breaking-of-fast with the local community at a Kinabatangan mosque, the Kinabatangan division head said the people must, therefore, avoid any practices that could create division amongst Malaysians.

       “We should use Ramadan as a medium to restore our relations and maintain our unity ... Muslims should celebrate this month with a clean heart and clear head that could prosper harmony.

       “We (Malaysians) may not practice the same religion, but as people of this country, we appreciate our differences and work together to develop our nation and achieve success.

       “This is a tradition we must incorporate in all citizens – Ramadan is the best time to practice tolerance,” said Bung Moktar.

       He said Malaysians should take every opportunity to strengthen solidarity through activities that gather people from all backgrounds.

       At the same time, he said that certain sentiments in this state that see Umno as a Peninsular-based party should no longer exist as the party has been in Sabah for 33 years and is led by Sabahans here.

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       “This label is too negative and could jeopardise the concept of unity government introduced by our Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he added.