Sarawak a model of unity in diversity, says National Unity Minister
SIBU (July 26): Sarawak continues to exemplify how ethnic and cultural diversity can be a unifying strength rather than a dividing barrier, said National Unity Minister Dato Sri Aaron Ago Dagang.
His message was delivered by Deputy Minister Senator Saraswathy Kandasami during the state-level launch of Sambutan Minggu Perpaduan 2025 at Dataran Tun Tuanku Haji Bujang here today.
Hundreds gathered for the unity-themed cultural celebration.
'Sarawak is the best reflection of how cultural and ethnic differences are not hindrances, but rather the strength that binds its people together,' Aaron said.
He noted that the diverse ethnic communities in Sarawak including the Iban, Bidayuh, Malay, Melanau, Orang Ulu, Chinese, and many others have long embodied harmonious living built on mutual respect and shared traditions.
'In this land, respect and manners are not just practised, but deeply ingrained.
'The sense of mutual regard transcends ancestry, religion, and geography,' he said, adding that Sarawak has gone beyond tolerance to embracing diversity with pride.
Aaron commended Sarawak for becoming a model of unity that the rest of Malaysia could emulate, particularly at a time when the world is facing cultural conflicts and identity politics.
'In a world shaken by identity crises and cultural clashes, Sarawak stands as a beacon of hope – a society that teaches us unity doesn't mean uniformity, but celebrating differences with empathy and respect,' he emphasised.
Highlighting the ministry's broader objective of fostering national cohesion, Aaron said efforts are underway to develop a comprehensive framework for building a stronger Malaysian identity – one that is inclusive and grounded in shared values.
He acknowledged that one of the key challenges to national unity lies in the continued reliance on ethnic lines for daily interactions and identity formation.
'According to the National Unity Index, ethnicity continues to be a major social deficit, often limiting meaningful interaction across communities,' he noted.
Addressing this, he urged for the creation of an inclusive national identity that transcends ethnicity, uniting Malaysians through common values and shared purpose in line with the Malaysia Madani vision.
The event featured ethnic performances, cultural exhibitions, traditional games, and youth programmes designed to strengthen grassroots unity.
It came following last week's national-level Unity Week celebration in Penang, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Aaron called on all Malaysians to move beyond symbolic unity celebrations and embrace unity as a genuine 'national movement that stirs the conscience of the people'.
'Let us make this Unity Week not just a yearly festivity, but a rallying call to build a future where we stand together as one, united in diversity, grounded in Madani values,' he said.
Also present was Ngemah assemblyman Anyi Jana, who delivered the welcoming address. Aaron Ago Dagang diversity Sibu unity
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