Malaysians have been urged not to allow extremist groups to exploit racial sentiments in ways that could undermine the harmony and unity built over decades.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the country’s diverse ethnic and cultural background should be celebrated as a national strength rather than used as a tool to divide society.
He said the spirit of unity should be strengthened, particularly during the National Month celebrations, with Malaysians from all walks of life encouraged to view one another as part of one large national family.
“Cultural and racial diversity is our country’s strength. We should celebrate this diversity as a unique feature, advantage and strength of Malaysia.
“Malays, Chinese, Indians, Ibans, Kadazan-Dusuns and Orang Asli are one family. We are relatives,” he said at a press conference after the launch of the National Housing Policy 2026-2035 at the KLGCC Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur today.
Nga said patriotism should also not be measured merely by the act of flying the Jalur Gemilang during National Month.
Instead, he said genuine patriotism should be reflected through efforts to preserve national stability, strengthen unity and protect harmony within Malaysia’s multicultural society.
“These three things are the keys to our country’s success. That is why we must not allow extremist groups to destroy the harmony and unity that we have built together for so long.
“We are one Malaysian family who respect and care for one another,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nga called on Malaysians to nurture the spirit of togetherness throughout the year instead of limiting such efforts to National Month celebrations.
He said building and developing a country was never an easy task and required contributions from every citizen to ensure Malaysia continued moving forward.
“We have one dream, one country and one mission. The Malaysian spirit must be nurtured and encouraged every day,” he said.
