Arts, Culture Preservation Key To Fostering National Unity - Aaron

KANGAR, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- Efforts to preserve and elevate the arts and culture of Malaysia’s diverse communities must be seen as an integral part of fostering national unity, said National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.

He said this was in line with the National Unity Policy and the National Cultural Policy, which emphasise the importance of building a community with a strong sense of identity, mutual respect and appreciation for Malaysia’s diversity.

“When we talk about unity, we cannot separate it from the arts and culture. Arts and culture are part of our identity and among the most effective ways of bringing people closer together,” he said.

He said this when officiating the Satu Suara, Seribu Warna Programme in conjunction with Semarak Perpaduan Perlis at the State Forestry Department Multipurpose Hall, near here, today.

Aaron said that Malaysia’s diversity was not only a source of strength but also what made the country unique.

He said the government would continue its efforts to ensure that the country’s artistic and cultural heritage was not only preserved but also continued to be appreciated by the younger generation.

“In this regard, institutions such as the Malaysian Museum Department, the National Library of Malaysia and the National Archives of Malaysia play an important role in preserving the country’s history, knowledge, documentation and cultural treasures, so that future generations can continue to learn about this heritage,” he said.

Meanwhile, Aaron said the younger generation should be given the space to experience, create and develop art and culture in ways that are relevant to the digital era they are growing up in.

“We need to use technology, social media and the creativity of young people to ensure that Malaysian arts and culture continue to have a place in their lives.”

“In this effort, the role of NGOs (non-governmental organisations) is very important. NGOs such as Pertubuhan Nadi Sihat can serve as a bridge between the government and the community. They have grassroots networks, a pool of volunteers, creativity and the ability to engage with the community through a more flexible approach,” he said.

Meanwhile, a statement issued by the Ministry of National Unity in conjunction with the event said that a total of 33,548 Tabika Perpaduan children nationwide took part in the colouring competition held simultaneously as part of the programme.

“This achievement has been recorded in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR). The programme also marks the third consecutive year of collaboration between Nadi Sihat and the Ministry of National Unity in implementing various programmes that carry a message of unity to the community,” said the ministry.

--BERNAMA