Sensitivities must be taken into consideration and the people must constantly strive to avoid any tensions or conflict, said Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi today.

"In our culture, the sensitivities of all parties must be taken into consideration," he said in his 2006 Chinese New Year message, reported by Bernama.

He said in anything the people wanted to say or do, they should not think only of themselves but also those around them.

"We have succeeded in building an atmosphere where differences are not only admitted, accepted and tolerated, but celebrated. If this spirit were to be disrupted, it might be difficult to regain it," he added.

Abdullah said the people should be aware that the peace and harmony they were enjoying now did not come easily or without hard work and they should strive to maintain it.

He attributed the nation's success to the muhibbah spirit and cooperation regardless of race or religion.

He said Malaysia, which had only gained independence 48 years ago, had come a long way and made great strides in various fields and at the same time managed to preserve peace and harmony.

Work for the nation

Abdullah urged Malaysians to usher in this new year with a determination to forge ahead in the right direction with proper planning and strategies.

He called on citizens to be steadfast in continuing to be united and work not only for oneself but for the nation so they could advance further and succeed in a mould of their own making.

The premier also reminded the people not to be complacent with the success they had now as greater challenges lay ahead.

"Together we share one soul, one spirit and one mind for our beloved nation," he said.

Abdullah, who wished all citizens a Happy Chinese New Year, added that Malaysians were lucky as they were able to share in the celebrations of all the races and religions in the country.