Zahid said it was the responsibility of every citizen of the country to maintain the harmonious relations being enjoyed by the people.

He said the people should reject any negative elements from inside or outside the country which could affect national harmony.

“If we understand and respect other religions, we can maintain the harmony that has existed for so long.

“Harmony is not easy to be created while tolerance is not easy to be defended. So, do not let in any negative elements from inside or outside which can destroy the country’s harmony,” he said when launching the Malaysia Christmas Open House 2016 at Pavilion shopping centre, here last night.

Also present were Tourism and Culture Minister Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz, Human Resource Minister Richard Riot and Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai.

Zahid said Malaysia was a country that had made official commitments to celebrate various festivals through the continuous efforts of the tourism and culture ministry.

“I was told that next year the tourism and culture ministry will carry out the #SayangMalaysia campaign.

“The programme aims to make Malaysia a major tourist destination and encourage domestic and foreign tourists to use social media to share beautiful moments and uniqueness while they are in Malaysia,” he said.

He said the extraordinary attendance at the event was a manifestation for the government.

Zahid also welcomed the arrival of foreign tourists and hoped they would celebrate the New Year here.

The event, held from 2pm, was enlivened by various cultural performances with a fantasy concept and singing performances by local artistes.

About 2,000 people attended the open house.