IPOH - Housing and Local Government (KPKT) Minister Nga Kor Ming has extended an invitation to Pas leaders to join the ministry's Aidilfitri celebrations following criticism over a recent Christmas celebration held at the ministry's office.
The DAP Vice-Chairman stressed that KPKT celebrates Malaysia’s cultural diversity, describing it as the strength and uniqueness of the nation.
Since assuming his ministerial role, the ministry has celebrated major festivals including Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Deepavali, and now Christmas.
"We celebrate all festivals joyously and we will not bow to fanaticism or extremism.
"Instead, we choose to show respect. We respect Muslims celebrating Aidilfitri and at the same time, we also respect Christians celebrating Christmas,” he said.
Nga described that the viral video showing KPKT staff singing Christmas songs was meant to demonstrate the spirit of goodwill and harmony.
He stated that most of the staff featured in the video were from Sabah and Sarawak, many of whom are of Kadazan descent.
He also blamed Pas Youth for opposing Christmas celebrations in government offices, particularly those involving Muslim staff, labelling the party’s stance as hypocritical.
Nga pointed to Pas Secretary-General Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan’s Christmas greetings on social media as evidence of inconsistency within the party.
"This shows the highest degree of hypocrisy. On one hand, they wish Christians a Merry Christmas, but on the other hand, they try to prevent Christians from celebrating their festival. What is this? I honestly do not understand,” Nga said.
He further invited Pas leaders to join the Aidilfitri celebrations, encouraging them to come with "kompang" and sing "nasyid” songs to celebrate.
In a sarcastic tone, Nga urged Pas to repent and stop actions that disrupt Malaysia’s multicultural harmony.
He also reminded them of the apology issued by Pas Perak Commissioner Razman Zakaria for spreading false claims about Chinese flags at the Leaning Tower of Teluk Intan last October.
"I advise them to heed the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s call to emphasise unity in diversity, which clearly states that cultural diversity is our nation’s strength,” he added.
Recently, Nga shared a one-minute-and-48-second video on X, showcasing the singing and Christmas celebration in his ministry’s office.
This prompted criticism from several Pas leaders, including Pas Youth Deputy Chief Muhammad Hanif Jamaluddin, who alleged that the celebration involved Muslim staff.