SHAH ALAM – Malaysia is not built by one race only, neither was it built by a single faith. And the sooner those who wish to divide the country realise that, the sooner the country can come together and realise its full potential.
This is the reminder of PAS vice president and Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar.
“We cannot change the demographic. It is no secret that the Malays are the largest community, but we share a common Malaysia. This is our home. Malaysia was built by all communities,” Ahmad Samsuri told a multi-faith gathering at Kelab Shah Alam here yesterday.
“Even in the Quran it is said that God created us different so we can get to know each other. Our differences are a strength. And knowing each other will help to ward off any instances of misunderstanding or hurt sensitivities,” said Ahmad Samsuri, who is currently Perikatan Nasional (PN) Chairman.
Speaking at the High Tea for Peace and Harmony event, Ahmad Samsuri, popularly referred to as Dr Sam, reminded the 200 guests that all religions touch on humanity.
“That is our common denominator and guides us to a common goal of harmony and prosperity. We cannot force each other to accept our ways, but we can share common aspirations,” said the Kemaman MP, who is among PN’s shortlist for prime minister if PN were to take Putrajaya in the next general election.
He also cautioned that while there are those who will use race and religion to cause division and animosity, the reaction against that should be dialogue and understanding.
Acknowledging the presence of non-Muslim faith leaders at the event, he said religious leaders must build bridges, not widen the gap between other faiths.
He called on all to learn from Sabah and Sarawak and how these Borneo territories have perfected living in harmony among the many races and communities.
“Malaysia’s future is our shared future. We want a Malaysia that is administered with integrity where there are opportunities for all,” he added.
He said if PN were to be given the chance to govern, it will ensure equitable solutions for the current socio-economic problems.
“I will not say that we can fix all the problems — that would be political rhetoric; but we will devise formulas to ensure fairness to all,” he said.
The event was organised by Dewan Ulamak PAS Pusat (DUPP) with the assistance of Dewan Himpunan Pendukung PAS (DHPP) — the official non-Muslim wing of PAS.
Also present were PN information chief Tan Sri Annuar Musa, DUPP chief Datuk Ahmad Yahaya, Terengganu State Legislative Assembly speaker Datuk Mohd Nor Hamzah, and Senator Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Abdul Aziz.
Among the guests were newly minted PAS member Datuk Zaid Ibrahim and Parti Bangsa Malaysia president Datuk Larry Sng.
The event and dialogues were moderated by DUPP secretary and Semenyih assemblyman Nushi Mahfodz. — August 17, 2026