KUALA LUMPUR: Datuk Dr Mohammad Agus Yusoff officially began his duties as Community Communication Department director-general in the Prime Minister's Department today.
Mohammad Agus said he accepted the role with the hope of working with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the unity government to develop the country.
"In terms of politics, it is to convey accurate information on the government's policies to the people to ensure that they understand and support the government's mission in realising Malaysia Madani.
"In terms of society, it is to educate and make the people aware of the need to respect each other and stand united to put an end to religious and racial extremism. Of course, there will always be differences, but what is important is we can celebrate and accept these differences with an open heart," he said in a posting on Facebook.
Mohammad Agus said the three main thrusts of the department include cultivating knowledge, nurturing a society with digital skills, and strengthening the people's patriotic spirit, in accordance with the Malaysia Madani concept.
This will further realise the government's aspiration to make Malaysia a developed, harmonious and prosperous nation, he added.
"The GE15 (15th General Election) episode has divided our society, while social media has somehow brought many negative effects to interracial relations.
"Therefore, we at the department will strive to educate the community with the right knowledge and ethics so that the spirit of patriotism as well as good relations and tolerance among the people, will be strengthened," he said.
Mohammad Agus said the department will work with government agencies, the private sector, non-governmental organisations, and youth and community leaders for that purpose. -- Bernama