KPN Sets Nation-Building As Main Focus To Strengthen National Unity

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 8 (Bernama) -- 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 the ministry evaluated the implementation of various unity programmes previously, which were seen as still not achieving the expected level of impact.

“We have organised various activities centred on harmony and diversity that aim to achieve unity. However, we cannot stop there. We can strengthen it because all those programmes actually 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. That's the ultimate goal," he said at a media meet-and-greet event held here today.

Aaron said nation-building is not a new concept, but rather 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. Language, clothing, values, and the understanding of history are important elements in the formation of national identity," he said.

He said young people, especially Generation Z, need to be given continuous exposure to the spirit of patriotism through more structured programmes in schools and higher education institutions.

Among the initiatives implemented are the Gerak Integrasi Perpaduan (GRIP) programme at the school level, cross-cultural programmes involving students from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, as well as volunteerism and leadership programmes at universities.

Meanwhile, Home Ministry deputy secretary-general (Policy and Strategic Planning) Mohammad Sobri Mat Daud said the Unity Sports League will be reorganised next year in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth and Sports (KBS), after not being held this year.

He said initial discussions had been held with the KBS, which manages the sports budget, to revitalise unity efforts at the grassroots level through inclusive participation from people of various races.

“Insya-Allah, we will start at the community level, if the budget is sufficient. The winner will advance to the state level and then to the national level. We want to attract the participation of the younger generation and various races to strengthen unity and reintroduce traditional folk sports at the community level," he also said.

He added that the addition of traditional sports is being studied according to suitability, with sepak takraw among the new sports expected to be competed, in addition to existing sports such as badminton, netball and basketball.

-- BERNAMA