Plan your trips well ahead, always put on your seatbelt, observe the traffic rules and rest if you are tired, as road safety is our joint responsibility, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

Delivering his message in conjunction with Christmas, he wished those travelling during this holiday season a pleasant journey.

"The season of joy, compassion and generosity is upon us. To my fellow Malaysians celebrating this festival, I wish you all Merry Christmas," he said in a statement today.

He said the many festivities celebrated all year round in Malaysia is an opportune time to embrace the richness of our cultural diversity.

"Even as we take time off to gather with our families and friends this holiday season, let us always respect each other's belief and stand together in unison as bangsa Malaysia," he added.

Meanwhile, Gerakan president Datuk Seri Mah Siew Keong said Malaysia served as the perfect backdrop to share and disseminate the meaningful Christmas message with fellow citizens and communities through joint celebration.

"In this Christmas, we must open ourselves to embrace common humanity, compassion, and tolerance for the building of a united, strong and harmonious Malaysian society," he said in his Christmas message.

He noted that it was also a time to reflect on the importance of assisting those in need and the disadvantaged. -- BERNAMA