Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has made a commitment that no Malaysian will be left behind as part of his Chinese New Year message.

"I am committed to ensure that no Malaysians will be left behind, that the future of our children will be better than ours, and that we will grow stronger and together as one.

"I hope that this Year of the Dog will bring prosperity and good health to you and your families, and may we continue to be proud and committed to Negaraku, a country that we love," he said in a message posted on his website today.

Chinese New Year placed great emphasis on the tradition of reunion, filial piety and respect, he added.

"This tradition, which has been practiced from generation to generation for thousands of years, is indeed a respectable custom.

"It symbolises the concept of coming together as one," he said.

This coming together, added Najib, was embraced by Malaysians of all cultural backgrounds who celebrate festivals together.

"I believe it has been ingrained in us since Independence. We live harmoniously as one regardless of race and creed.

"It has become a way of life and this bond between us is what I believe to be the true spirit of 1Malaysia," he said.

He noted that the Chinese community has made "tremendous contributions" to the country culturally and economically, and credited it for playing a "nation-building" role.