National Unity A Legacy To Be Protected - Sultan Nazrin

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- National unity is a legacy that must be safeguarded through respect, empathy, and shared responsibility among Malaysians, said Sultan of Perak Sultan Nazrin Shah.

The Royal Patron and Chairman of the Merdeka Award Trust said diversity has always been one of Malaysia’s greatest strengths, but unity requires continuous nurturing and effort.

“One of Malaysia’s greatest strengths has always been our diversity. Yet diversity alone does not guarantee unity. It must be nurtured with practical support, fierce celebration of originality, and a willingness to embrace change,” he said at the announcement and presentation ceremony of the 2025 Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment, here today.

Sultan Nazrin said nationhood in the 21st century demands tackling false and divisive narratives while fostering respectful dialogue, meaningful connections, and actions that reflect inclusivity.

“It is the shared responsibility of every generation, as we continue to define and uplift what it means to be Malaysians rooted in empathy, fairness, and a spirit of shared destiny. We must continue to build a Malaysia in which people of all faiths and backgrounds can not only co-exist, but can also enrich and elevate each other with wisdom and compassion,” he said.

Highlighting the role of youth, Sultan Nazrin said Malaysia needs a generation capable of critical thinking, maturity, and courage in facing challenges while remaining grounded in national values.

“If we want a Malaysia that remains progressive economically and socially, we need a Malaysian youth courageous enough to listen deeply and act with maturity. A generation inspired by truth, not distracted by cynicism. A generation that knows that loving this country does not mean ignoring its flaws, but working together to prune, protect and regrow,” he said.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness also announced the expansion of the Merdeka Award Grant to include a new category in Humanities, Arts and Sports alongside the existing pillars of Education, Community and Environment, and Science, Technology and Innovation.

“This expansion reflects a broader vision of what it means to build a resilient and cohesive society. It recognises that culture, creativity and human expression are not peripheral branches, but the very soul of our national identity, the rings by which we mark and chronicle our progress,” he said.

The Sultan also revealed that applications for the grant reached a record high this year, exceeding 200 submissions for the first time since its inception in 2013.

Since its introduction in 2013, the Merdeka Award Grant has seen 33 recipients who have brought back knowledge and innovation from more than 40 world-class institutions, benefiting local communities and strengthening Malaysia’s position globally.

Sultan Nazrin expressed confidence that Malaysia’s future will be driven by changemakers who embrace knowledge, empathy, and purpose.

“I believe Malaysia will be reimagined, rewired, and reignited by these changemakers, including many of you gathered here today," he said.

The Merdeka Award Grant for International Attachment, introduced in 2013, provides young Malaysians aged between 22 and 35 with the opportunity to gain global exposure, develop innovative solutions, and contribute towards national development.

-- BERNAMA