Jejawi: The MADANI government, through the Ministry of National Unity Malaysia, has channelled more than RM2 million in special allocations to the Siamese community between 2023 and last year. Its minister, Aaron Ago Dagang, said the funds were aimed at supporting initiatives related to mother tongue education, cultural preservation and the strengthening of traditional customs within the community.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, RM500,000 was allocated in 2023, RM840,000 in 2024, and RM750,000 last year. Aaron Ago Dagang mentioned that the government will continue to support similar initiatives as part of efforts to preserve national heritage and the unique diversity that defines Malaysia. He made these remarks while officiating the 2026 national-level Songkran celebration at Wat Macchimaprasit in Jejawi.
Also present at the event was the Communications Ministry Secretary-General, Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah. Aaron emphasized that cultural heritage events such as Songkran serve as a bridge that unites Malaysians, reflecting the country's strength in embracing diversity as an asset rather than a divide. He stressed the shared responsibility to preserve this heritage for future generations.
The Siamese community in Malaysia is estimated at around 70,000 people, primarily residing in northern states such as Kedah, Kelantan, Perlis, and Perak. The National Unity Ministry, in a separate statement, urged the media to highlight the Siamese community more prominently, noting that many Malaysians remain unaware of their presence and contributions to the country's social fabric. It emphasized the need for accurate and continuous information dissemination to correct misconceptions, such as the belief that the Siamese ethnic group exists only in Thailand.
The ministry also highlighted the importance of promoting the narrative of diversity to foster understanding, appreciation, and unity among Malaysians. At the Songkran event, Jauwadee a/p Bun Chea from Chuping, near Padang Besar, was crowned the national-level 2026 Songkran Queen.