[Straits Times] EXTREMISM in any faith - be it among Muslims, Christians, Buddhists or Hindus - will leave a negative impact on the community, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said.The old "we are all responsible" argument. "Extremist" Christians have compounds in Texas harming none but themselves that the government burns out like rat holes. What does an "extremist" Buddhist do? Fall into his navel and refuse to come out?
For this reason, it was important to promote togetherness, the Prime Minister said. 'We all may be different in our (religious) beliefs but there are values we have in common that can strengthen unity and promote peace and harmony,' he told religious leaders at a luncheon held in conjunction with World Interfaith Harmony Week on Monday.
There are, on the other hand, values unique to particular religions that make their adherents a danger to the rest. Not all of them, of course, but a percentage. Once the percentage reaches a certain point they become intolerant and intolerable.
'It is extremism, rather than differences in faith, that triggers tension among people,' he said, warning that if this was not dealt with, it would have adverse effects on the nation and humanity in general.
If some religions are more prone to extremism perhaps they should make more effort to control themselves and their adherents.
'This was the reason, during the United Nations General Asssembly last year, I had called for the formation of a global movement of moderates. I believe this is the way forward to save the world and Malaysia (from extremism).'