11.MANIFESTO RAKYAT RESPECTING THE POSITION OF ISLAM AS THE OFFICIAL RELIGION, GUARANTEEING THE FREEDOM OF RELIGION Pakatan Rakyat respects the position of Islam as the official religion and guarantees the freedom of other religions as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Islam’s unique position as the official religion of Malaysia fosters a spirit of mutual respect and understanding, and cultivates unity and harmony amongst Malaysians of diverse ethnic backgrounds. By promoting the appreciation of universal values which Islam and other religions embrace, we aim to produce a virtuous Malaysian society, comprising individuals who possess integrity and diligence. PROMOTING CULTURE AS THE FOUNDATION OF COMMUNITY LIVING Culture is the bond that reinforces a nation’s core beliefs, establishes harmony and develops a society that believes and is confident of its identity. Pakatan Rakyat aims to elevate cultural activities based on good universal and spiritual values by strengthening community organizations and links. More efforts will be put into uplifting knowledge, supporting the development of language skills and encouraging the growth of the various branches of the arts. A culture that celebrates diversity and accepts differences as a source of strength will provide a strong foundation for our community life.12
12.MANIFESTO RAKYATTHE PEOPLE’SECONOMY1. 1 million job opportunities for the people2. Equitable productivity sharing through minimum wage3. One million school leavers trained as skilled labour4. Education reform to drive the economy5. Cultivating smart partnership of trade unions, employers and government6. SMIs and innovation to drive the national economy7. Tax adjustment to promote equity8. Sustainable economy9. Defending military veterans’ economy and welfare10. Making taxi entrepreneurs viable11. R & D investments to reach 5% of GDP12. Public transportation – the lifeline of the national economy13. Breaking monopolies, encouraging competition 13