In the past, Malaysia was seen as an example of a moderate and modern Muslim country due to its economic progress and social stability, he said at an interfaith dialogue on the concept of fasting in different religions here today.
He claimed, however, that it had become “evident” in recent years that Malaysia was moving backwards.
He cited an incident in Penang where a group of people warned his son, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, not to partake in breaking fast events in conjunction with Ramadan.
“We have lost our moral standing in the world and Malaysians of all faiths must be concerned about this,” the Gelang Patah MP said.
He called on the people, regardless of their individual faiths, to take Ramadan as an opportunity to improve themselves.
“Ramadan is a month to abstain from the bad habits of life. Become better Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, Taoists, Sikhs, Christians, become better Malaysians.”
He said he believed that those who were sincere in their faiths could show the way to a better Malaysia.
“Malaysia can be a beacon and an example again. Malaysia can rediscover its original dreams and hopes. Various faiths must show the way,” he said.