Cultural, Ethnic Diversity Malaysia’s Strength - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has emphasised that Malaysia’s cultural and ethnic diversity is the nation’s main strength and not something to be rejected or feared.  

Speaking at the launch of the Malaysia Cultural Festival 2025 ‘Wow Malaysia’ at Taman Tasik Titiwangsa here tonight, Anwar said the nation’s greatness lies in the acceptance and respect for the heritage of the various communities that shape the national identity.  

“Our greatness comes from our willingness to embrace our nation’s heritage, with its many ethnic groups and regions, each with its own strength, all displaying extraordinary beauty and richness.  

“This culture is developed by embracing the traditions of other communities, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban, Kadazan, Murut, Melanau, and Bajau, all of which we then recognise as our culture, as Malaysians. 

“This is what will ensure our success, guarantee peace and continuity. But if we begin to isolate or reject one another, that is when the seeds of division among us will take root,” he said.

Anwar said he needed to stress the matter so that the people would not be swayed into becoming a small group unwilling to embrace the diversity that has long been Malaysia’s lifeblood.  

“We must show our willingness not only to recognise, but also to respect, to enrich, to elevate, to introduce and to demonstrate that we are inspired by the richness of each culture.  

“This is what I want to emphasise as Malaysia’s strength, different from the views of a small group who believe only their perspective is right and are not ready to embrace diversity,” he said.  

Sharing his experience, Anwar said foreign leaders had also expressed admiration for the diversity and harmony of Malaysians showcased through cultural performances held to welcome their visits to the country. 

On the matter of language, Anwar stressed that Bahasa Melayu remains the official language and a unifying force for the people, but the right of all communities to master their mother tongues must also be respected.  

“This country is built on several foundations, and one of them is language. Bahasa Melayu is the official language, the language that strengthens and unites all the people of our nation.  

“But this country is also founded on respect for the right of all communities to master their own languages. With the global developments today, we also recognise the need to master multiple languages, especially English,” he said.  

The Malaysia Cultural Festival 2025 features more than 68 cultural activities across six main zones, showcasing a blend of traditional performances and modern innovations.  

The festival is organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) in collaboration with the Ministry of National Unity, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, the Federal Territories Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall.  

Also present at the opening ceremony were Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing; Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Zaliha Mustafa; and Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.

-- BERNAMA