Malaysian Premier shares Punjabi meal with Sikhs on Baisakhi

Najib Tun Razzak

KUALA LUMPUR: Keen to bridge the racial divide, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Tun Razzak visited a Gurudwara and shared a Punjabi meal of 'parantha', 'pakora,' and 'ladoo' with members of the minority Sikh community here.

In a rare gesture, Najib visited the Gururdwara, where at least 1000 Sikhs welcomed him on the occasion of Baisakhi and asked his countrymen to break racial barriers.

"We must break the race barrier. We should not look at skin color but as one Malaysia. If one needs help, he should be helped. If we have that attitude, we will move forward," he said here yesterday.

The premier greeted the people with folded hands and later walked into the Gurudwara kitchen, sharing a meal of ladoo, parantha, pakora and masala tea with those present.

"I just want to be one of you in a natural way to see you taking part in your daily activities, so that I can better understand your aspirations and the hopes of the Sikh community... And all other communities in Malaysia," he was quoted as saying by Bernama news agency.

Najib said he wanted to make it clear that the government stood for all Malaysians, regardless of race and religion.

"I want to stress I am the leader of all communities, religions and races. My presence here is to recognize the contribution of Sikhs to the country's development," he said.