Noting the status of Christians as the third-largest religious community in the country, PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan said Christian holidays were a vital part of Malaysia’s cultural tapestry.

“These celebrations not only add vibrancy to our shared experiences but also foster a deeper sense of respect, understanding, and unity,” he said in a statement.

Takiyuddin said PAS embraced and celebrated the enriching aspects of these celebrations, adding that they helped build a “higher equality and more moral society grounded in noble and sacred values”.

“With shared historical roots in the Abrahamic faiths, Muslims and Christians in Malaysia share significant commonalities – not only in foundational beliefs and practices, but also in our collective capacity to contribute meaningfully to the creation of a better nation,” he said.

He also noted other commonalities including a belief in monotheism, respect for prophets, reverence for Mary, life after death, fasting, and charity.

He said the Islamic party believed that the moral strength of both Muslims and Christians could play a pivotal role in creating a more just and harmonious world, free from societal issues like war, hatred, and injustice.

“Happy holidays and have a joyous and meaningful Christmas,” he said.