KUALA LUMPUR: Views on religion must be expressed with care as freedom of expression is not a ticket or an excuse to insult or belittle the religious beliefs of others, says National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.

He said spreading fake news or provocative statements about religion can worsen the situation and create racial tension.

“As a country rich in diversity, we cannot deny that differences exist in various aspects of life.

“However, we must see these differences as strengths and not weaknesses.

“This diversity should not be a dividing line, but rather the basis for a society that is inclusive and respectful,” he said at the launch of Jejak Harmoni programme in conjunction with World Interfaith Harmony Week yesterday.

The event was organised by the Malaysian Consultative Council for Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism in collaboration with the National Unity Ministry.

Aaron Ago called on the people to adopt a mature attitude in every discussion related to religion and race and to use freedom of speech to build stronger harmony and unity.

“Social media is a major platform in disseminating information, but it must be used in a responsible manner,” he said, Bernama reported.

Aaron Ago said the government is committed to ensuring that the unity of the people continues to be strengthened through various initiatives and policies that promote interaction, harmony and mutual well-being.

He urged all parties, especially religious bodies, to participate in organising harmony-based activities by spreading the message of harmony to help achieve the goals of the Madani Harmony Initiative.

The Jejak Harmoni programme involved a goodwill visit by the participants walking to places of worship starting from Masjid Al- Hidayah in Sentul Pasar and ending at Gurdwara Sahib in Sentul.