The Ministry of National Unity will focus on nation-building in 2026 to forge a shared Malaysian identity and strengthen national cohesion.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of National Unity (KPN) has set nation-building as its main objective for next year to strengthen national unity through the formation of a shared national identity.
Its minister, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, said the focus was set after evaluating previous unity programmes, which were seen as not achieving the expected level of impact.
“We have organised various activities centred on harmony and diversity that aim to achieve unity,” he said at a media event.
He added that all those programmes lead to nation-building, which is the foundation of national stability.
“When we accept the concept of a nation-state, we will become a united country with our own identity as Malaysians.”
Aaron said nation-building is a long-term project that needs to be driven from the grassroots level, particularly through the education system.
“Malaysia is a multiracial country. We don’t deny diversity, but we need a common identity as Malaysians,” he said.
He stated that language, clothing, values, and the understanding of history are important elements in forming this national identity.
Young people, especially Generation Z, need continuous exposure to patriotism through structured programmes in schools and universities.
Initiatives include the Gerak Integrasi Perpaduan (GRIP) programme at schools and cross-cultural programmes involving students from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Home Ministry deputy secretary-general Mohammad Sobri Mat Daud said the Unity Sports League will be reorganised next year in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS).
He said initial discussions have been held with KBS to revitalise unity efforts at the grassroots level through inclusive participation.
“Insya-Allah, we will start at the community level, if the budget is sufficient,” he said.
The winner will advance to the state level and then to the national level.
He added that the ministry wants to attract the participation of the younger generation and various races to strengthen unity.
The initiative also aims to reintroduce traditional folk sports at the community level.
The addition of traditional sports is being studied, with sepak takraw among the new sports expected to be competed.
This is in addition to existing sports such as badminton, netball and basketball.
