Malaysian Muslims must respect other religions, said Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He said by doing so, they would earn the respect of those practising other religions.

He said this when was addressing a congregation at the Al-Muttaqin mosque in Kota Samarahan, his first programme during his two-day visit to Sarawak beginning today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Home Minister, said Islam did not despise or neglect other religions and this was a base to encourage unity among themselves and others in a multi-racial and multi-religious country like Malaysia.

"However, to show our respect for other religions will call for some sacrifices on our part.

"The sacrifices are about doing good for everyone and this should start within our own families,"he said.

Ahmad Zahid added that unity among Muslims would also strengthen Islam.

Meanwhile, he said it was essential for Muslims in the global community and borderless world now to embrace the influx of modern technologies which were changing the way people were thinking and acting.

"We must in fact master those beneficial ones to remain relevant. But I would remind especially Gen Y not to be overzealous and must avoid those with very negative tendencies,"he said.

On the request by Abang Karim Rahman Hamzah who is the state assistant minister of housing and also youth develoment, as well as Asajaya state assemblyperson, for assistance to change the Al Muttaqin Mosque'sroof, Ahmad Zahid said he would look into it .

Earlier, Ahmad Zahid had witnessed the slaughter of one of nine cows at the mosque compound, which were donated by the state mosque welfare board.

He also distributed meat to 40 of the 135 recipients in the area.

State minister of housing Abang Johari Openg was among those present.

- Bernama