Unity is everyone's job all the time, not just during Unity Week

Focus Malaysia

7 days ago

LAST Saturday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched National Unity Week in Penang. Held on July 17‒20 across the country, it also serves as a prelude to the Merdeka celebrations next month.
Sadly, not many people pay attention to the National Unity Week, which was held to help strengthen the bonds between people of different races, religions and regions. It is a reminder of what holds us together as Malaysians. It gives us a moment to pause and reflect on what unity really means.
But let us be honest with ourselves. Right now, our state of unity has much room to grow. There is a lot of noise out there. People are arguing more. Social media is filled with insults and antagonism.
It feels like we are being pulled apart instead of being brought closer together. At times, it feels like we are losing the sense of mutual respect and trust that once defined Malaysia.
We must pause and ask ourselves, why is this happening?
One reason is that some quarters find it useful to play on our fears. They bring up race or religion to sow discord. They think this will win them support or votes but what they are really doing is tearing at the fabric of our nation. When leaders choose division over unity, everyone loses.
As an elected representative, I believe politicians should stop using race and religion as tools to divide Malaysians. These tactics may bring short-term 'gains', but they cause long-term harm. Our people deserve better.
True leadership means building bridges, not burning them. It means putting the country first, even when it is hard. It means having the courage to say no to those who benefit from chaos and fear.
Unity cannot be built on slogans alone. It must be built on understanding, empathy, and shared responsibility. Each of us has a role to play in this.
First, we must understand that Malaysia has a rich history and a complex social fabric. We come from many traditions and cultures. We speak different languages and practise different faiths. But this is not something to fear. It is something to be cherished.
Having the understanding about our collective roots allows us to better navigate the complexity of living in a plural society. It provides context about our surroundings and our place in it.
Second, we must learn to put ourselves in the shoes of others. This means listening without judgement. It means asking questions before jumping to conclusions. It means remembering that behind every label is a human being with hopes, fears and dreams.
Third, we must stay alert to those who try to manipulate us. Whether through speeches, online comments or viral videos, some people try to provoke anger or hatred. They want to divide us for their own gain. We must not let them succeed.
In my constituency in Jementah, I see real unity every day. When floods hit, neighbours of all races come together to help. During festive seasons, families of different backgrounds visit one another.
In our neighbourhoods, children from diverse backgrounds play side by side, laugh together and grow up as friends. We look beyond race and religion.
This is the Malaysia I know. This is the Malaysia I believe in.
We must protect this spirit of togetherness. Not just during Unity Week, but all year round. It should live in how we talk to each other, how we solve problems, and how we teach our children.
Let us also be clear. Unity does not mean we must all be the same. It means we must work together even when we are different. It means we must move forward as one, not in separate directions.
Malaysia's strength lies in our diversity. But that strength will only show if we choose to stand together. Not just when it is easy, but especially when it is hard.
Let Unity Week be more than an annual event. We ought to live the spirit of this event every day of the year—in good times and bad.
True unity is not tested when everything is going well, but when we face challenges together. It is in those moments that our commitment to one another matters most.
Because unity is not the job of the government alone. It is not just the work of schools or community groups. Unity is everyone's job, and it starts with us. ‒ July 21, 2025
Ng Kor Sim is the State Assemblywoman for Jementah.
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia.
Main image: The Borneo Post