Citing the concept of “tasamuh” which emphasises the value of tolerance and togetherness, he said it was the pillar of the Keluarga Malaysia concept, introduced by the federal government a year ago.

“With ‘tasamuh’, the Keluarga Malaysia concept will appreciate the differences among people within the boundaries outlined by Islam.

“As the government, it is our responsibility to always nurture unity and find common ground in diversity through the concept of Keluarga Malaysia and ‘tasamuh’,” Bernama reported him as saying when opening the Kelantan Keluarga Malaysia Aspirations Tour in Kota Bharu today.

He said the idea for Keluarga Malaysia was not just a mere slogan, adding that the government would take care of everyone like a family.

He said the concept is aimed at uniting the multiracial and multi-religious community into one big family based on three main thrusts — inclusiveness, togetherness and gratitude.

“It is actually based on the existing values that we have in a family. If there is a family member who is in trouble, the other members will also feel it.

“Therefore, we are bringing this concept to the whole country so that the people can appreciate and understand the aspirations of Keluarga Malaysia more clearly.”

On another matter, Ismail said the government would continue to pay attention to overcoming poverty in Kelantan through various initiatives, including an allocation of RM124 million for the 590,000 Malaysian Family Assistance (BKM) recipients in the state.

In addition, he said Tok Bali is targeted to become a new growth centre with an investment target of RM2.3 billion. This is expected to generate 4,200 new jobs and 270 entrepreneurial opportunities.

“Tok Bali is targeted to become a new growth centre through special tax incentives and high-impact projects implemented by the East Coast Economic Region Development Council.

“They include the Tok Bali Industrial Park, Tok Bali Integrated Fisheries Park and external infrastructure for the Tok Bali port.”