Respect for different faiths needs to start from an early age
By Margaret Perry, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 16 March 2008 2019 hrs

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SINGAPORE: Youths play a key role in building peace and harmony among different races and religions in Singapore – that was the message at the first "Youth for Peace Interfaith Symposium" held on Sunday.

Music and the arts from different religions were showcased at the symposium, which was attended by 4,000 young people of different faiths.

Religious tolerance has to be based on mutual understanding and regard, said Foreign Affairs Minister George Yeo at the event.

And Singaporeans should learn to respect other faiths from an early age.

"Instructing the young to be tolerant of diversity is crucial. Religious differences are deep differences; they are not superficial and cannot be easily bridged. Any religious group when threatened can react violently," said Mr Yeo.

Such religious tension has sparked conflict around the world and the impact of war was on display at the symposium's peace exhibition, reminding Singaporeans that they cannot take stability here for granted.

A book, titled "180° Yearnings for Peace", was also launched at the event.

Copies of the book, which feature quotes for peace as viewed by different faiths, will be given to main religious organisations in Singapore to share with their members.

The book and the symposium were published and organised by the Singapore Soka Association which is hoping that the peace event will be held once every two to three years.


- CNA/so