KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 16 — 1Malaysia Foundation trustee Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has called on Malaysians of different ethnic origin to always be conscious of the need to have mutual respect for one another.

“We must help preserve unity which is a priceless gift that must be cherished by all Malaysians in a multi-racial country like ours,” he said in his Chinese New Year message.

According to Lee, multiracial living and community were part of the country’s heritage and they had become an important source of racial integration for many years.

“Such aspects have certainly played a part in making Malaysia a harmonious place to live, learn, work and play,” the prominent social activist said.

Lee said one way to celebrate the Year of the Dog was to improve people’s understanding of animals, including stray and wild animals.

“Moving ahead as a civilised society, we must put a stop to all forms of animal cruelty,” he said.

He also urged the authorities to take concrete and prompt action to address issues such as wildlife road kill as well as poaching and smuggling activities. — Bernama