“Run4Unity”
Speech by the Chief Minister of Penang
at “Run4Unity”
1 May 2017 , St. Anne. Bukit Mertajam
A very good morning to all, including the organisers of “Run4Unity”, and participants.
The “Run4Unity” is an annual event which takes places in all corners of the world within the same week. This is the very first time, it takes place in Malaysia. Significantly, this takes place in this historically and culturally magnificent state of Penang, with the UNESCO World Heritage site of George Town.
We must all be clear about the purpose or objective of “Run4Unity”, which is to foster unity and peace among young adolescents of multiple ethnic groups, cultures and religions. The whole world today is in need of peace and unity, especially among today’s young adolescents, who will be the leaders of tomorrow.
The objective of “Run4Unity” could only be achieved through “The Golden Rule”, which postulates that we must do unto others what we want others to do unto us. The Golden Rule enables us to put aside our differences and focus on the similarities that we share, especially the fact that we are people who have the need for a sense of belonging. It is through events like this that such a simple but profoundly meaningful message of “The Golden Rule”, which is key to global peace and unity, could resonate throughout the world.
I would like to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to the organisers of this event, namely the Church of St. Anne and the Focolare movement for working unwaveringly and steadfastly for the success of this event, which will benefit everyone here.
Let us pray for a harmonious society that not only promotes tolerance, but more importantly mutual respect. Despite our different faiths, we believe in universal values of doing good, helping everyone and advancing the cause of peace, freedom , justice, integrity and democracy. Let us o4ppose violence, lies and hatred. Let us stop all wars by declaring war on racism, poverty, ignorance, extremism and corruption.
Thank you and may God bless you.