The PM says many Muslim organisations and individuals continue to serve not only members of their own faith, but Fijians from every community. [Photo:

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka is calling on Fijians to reject racial and religious intolerance and strengthen respect among the country’s diverse communities.

In his national address marking the birthday of Prophet Muhammad, Rabuka said Fiji’s diversity should be a source of strength and unity.

He is urging parents, teachers and community leaders to teach young people to respect people with different beliefs, cultures and backgrounds.

“We must teach our young people to respect people whose beliefs or backgrounds may be different from their own. We must have the courage to speak against words and actions that seek to divide us. Our different places of worship may have different names and traditions, but the values of love, dignity, service and peace are values that can and will unite us. On this special occasion, I therefore encourage all Fijians to reflect on what each of us can do to strengthen the bonds within our communities.”

Rabuka says the government, religious leaders, community leaders, parents, teachers and every citizen have a role in building a peaceful and inclusive Fiji.

Rabuka says the teachings of Prophet Muhammad provide an important reminder of compassion, service and peaceful coexistence.

He is urging Fijians to strengthen the bonds that unite the country and ensure that diversity does not become a source of division.

Rabuka says everyone must reflect on the values of compassion, understanding, and service that lie at the heart of the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings.

“A strong Fiji is one in which a Christian can wish a Muslim neighbour well on this occasion; where a Muslim family can share in the joy of Diwali with their Hindu neighbours; where we respect the traditions and values of our indigenous communities; and where people of every faith and background can live together in dignity and mutual respect. That is the Fiji we must continue to build and cherish.”

He says the Muslim community has long been an integral part of Fiji’s national journey and across generations, they have contributed immensely to our nation’s development in education, agriculture, commerce, the professions, public service, charitable work and community development.

The PM says many Muslim organisations and individuals continue to serve not only members of their own faith, but Fijians from every community.

He says their commitment to faith, family, and service continues to make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the wellbeing and progress of the country.