Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad, in his message in conjunction with Christmas, has urged multi-ethnic Malaysia to continue the tradition of celebrating each other's festivities.

"It is a manifestation of the inclusiveness of Malaysian cultures that has been celebrated over the years.

"I hope this mutual regard will continue and passed on to the younger generation. This is what made Malaysia unique, united and strong," said Mahathir in a video message posted on his Facebook page.

Earlier today, Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail urged Malaysians to cherish the love, understanding and respect between Malaysians.

She said Muslims are compelled by the teachings of Islam to be just and kind to non-Muslims.

"This Christmas, I call upon all Malaysians to continue to uphold the peaceful coexistence and bonds of friendship between people of all races and religions in this country," she said in a statement.

However, PAS Youth chief Muhammad Khalil Abdul Hadi, during a lecture in Kuala Terengganu on Sunday, said Muslims should not partake in Christmas celebrations because it was against Islam.

He also urged Muslims not to post Christmas greetings on Facebook because it was an acknowledgement of the Christian religion.

"Christmas has an element of syirik (idolatry) which is against the teachings of Islam. They claim that God had a child, which is against our beliefs as Muslims.

"They celebrate Christmas with such elements. They claim the prophet Isa (Jesus) to be the son of God," he said, according to Sinar Harian.