Kuala lumpur: National unity advocate Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye has proposed the establishment of a National Harmony Commission as an independent statutory body to safeguard and strengthen inter-ethnic and interfaith harmony in the country. He emphasized that Malaysia's diversity has historically been the nation's greatest strength, but recent incidents involving racial and religious sensitivities highlight the need for reinforced efforts to protect national unity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Lee expressed concern over the rise of racial and religious tensions, both online and offline. He stated, "As a multiracial, multireligious and multicultural nation, we have long prided ourselves on our ability to live together in peace, mutual respect and shared prosperity." Lee warned that ignoring these issues could jeopardize the core of national unity.

Lee proposed that the commission could act as an early intervention mechanism, designed to monitor trends, mediate disputes, and address grievances before they escalate into larger conflicts. Additionally, the commission could facilitate structured interfaith and intercultural dialogue, promote community-based initiatives, and advise the government on policies involving sensitive matters related to race, religion, language, and education.

He further clarified that the establishment of such a body should be perceived as a proactive measure to strengthen national unity, rather than a reactionary step to emerging crises. "The establishment of such a commission should not be seen as a reaction to a crisis, but as a proactive step towards nation-building," Lee concluded.