http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_457355.html
PRIME Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Friday underlined the need for religious groups to remain mindful of Singapore's multi-religious society even as they increase collaboration with international groups.
Speaking at the official opening of the Singapore Buddhist Federation's (SBF's) new building in Geylang, he noted that Buddhism is growing worldwide, including in Singapore, and this has led to more frequent exchanges between Buddhists all over the world.
'Cross-border religious cooperation has great significance and enhances our spiritual wealth,' he noted.
But at the same time, he said, 'we should not overlook the fact that we are a multi-religious society even as we participate in such projects.'
'We should not take racial and religious harmony for granted,' he stressed, reminding his audience that he had discussed the issue at length during his National Day Rally address in August.
In that address, he emphasised four principles that Singaporeans - of all religions - should observe to maintain peace and harmony here: exercise tolerance and restraint; keep religion separate from politics; uphold a secular government; and maintain common spaces.
zakirh@sph.com.sg
Read the full story in Saturday's edition of The Straits Times.
Sat Nov 21, 2009 11:23 am