While 25th December may have, over the years, developed to become more than just a religious date - what with the shopping season and extended holidays that accompany it - Christmas Day remains steeped in solemn religious tradition, celebrated by 2 billion followers of the Christian faith.

In Malaysia, there are occasional hiccups in how we treat one another along religious lines. But whatever the past may be, let us believe in the promise of the future where Malaysians of all race and religion can embrace our differences as requisite to becoming united as one people under the Jalur Gemilang.

We need only to read that famous declaration – the Rukunegara – to know that there is a common ground to be stood on, if we choose to. For me, it really isn't a choice. If we want to survive as a people and make this country glorious, we must stand on this common ground.

On that note, may I wish one and all, a Merry Christmas and safe traveling at year’s end.