Kuala lumpur: The National Unity Ministry is shifting its strategic focus from strengthening social cohesion to nation building under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the shift is aimed at developing a shared identity rooted in the Federal Constitution, Rukun Negara, mutual respect, and shared responsibility as Malaysia enters a new chapter.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Aaron emphasized that a successful nation-state is one where citizens of different religions, cultures, and ethnicities do not merely coexist, but share a common future. He pointed out that multi-faith partnership will remain one of the most important pillars in this journey because when faith communities work together, societies become more resilient. Aaron made these remarks while officiating a roundtable discussion in the city today.
The one-day event, themed 'Human Flourishing and Multi-Faith Partnership', was organised through a collaboration between the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) and the International Centre for Law and Religion Studies at Brigham Young University. It brought together leaders from various faiths, academics, policymakers, government representatives, civil society organisations, and community leaders as a platform for intellectual discourse and strengthening cooperation based on universal values.
The programme was also held in collaboration with the Department of National Unity and Integration, Seminari Theoloji Malaysia, Majlis Ugama Islam Sabah, the Sabah Mufti's Office, and Pertubuhan Keharmonian Inklusif Tanah Air Sabah. Aaron said the roundtable's theme was closely aligned with Malaysia's aspiration to strengthen unity within a diverse nation, which is why conversations on human flourishing must go beyond economic growth.
He stated that national development cannot be measured solely by gross domestic product (GDP) or physical infrastructure. Aaron remarked, "A nation truly flourishes when its people live with dignity, trust one another, respect diversity, and work together for the common good."
He noted that the Federal Constitution recognises Islam as the religion of the Federation while guaranteeing the freedom of other religions to be practised in peace and harmony. This constitutional balance has enabled Malaysia to nurture a multicultural society where different faiths continue to coexist while preserving their respective identities.
Elaborating on multi-faith partnerships, Aaron emphasised that it is not merely about religious tolerance, but about working together across differences to address common challenges. "In Malaysia, religious organisations have long collaborated beyond theological boundaries through humanitarian relief, food aid programmes, education initiatives, and welfare assistance for vulnerable communities," he said.
Meanwhile, Aaron described religious leaders as among the most trusted voices in society who shape moral values, influence public attitudes, and act as key guides during times of uncertainty. "Their responsibility, therefore, extends beyond serving their own congregations, as they are also guardians of social harmony," he added.