Penang: The Ministry of National Unity is planning to introduce a new strategy for next year’s Unity Week (SMP) celebration by implementing a ‘2-in-1’ concept at the state level. This innovative approach will merge the SMP with ethnic minority cultural festivals that are unique to each state, aiming to enhance cultural appreciation and unity across Malaysia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang announced that this initiative is designed to acknowledge the heritage of ethnic minorities and provide a platform for Malaysians to celebrate the cultural diversity that contributes to the national identity. For instance, states like Perak will highlight the Siamese community through the Songkran Festival, Sarawak will feature the Melanau’s Kaul Festival, Sabah will celebrate the Rungus’ Magahau Festival, Kelantan will focus on the Orang Asli Temiar celebration, and Johor will showcase the Bugis’ Lepa-Lepa Festival.
The Minister emphasized the ministry’s commitment to promoting unity, nationhood, goodwill, and volunteerism among Malaysians. These efforts are consistent with the Federal Constitution, the Rukun Negara, and the National Unity Policy. The announcement was made during the National-Level 2025 SMP celebration at Batu Kawan Stadium, which was attended by key figures including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Furthermore, Aaron highlighted that the National Unity Index (IPNas) is expected to reach a score of 0.7, indicating a strong level of unity among Malaysians. The index evaluates crucial aspects such as inter-ethnic relations, perceptions of national identity, and social beliefs, serving as a key reference for the ministry’s policies and initiatives to enhance national unity.
Since 2023, numerous initiatives have been implemented with the ultimate goal of building the Negara Bangsa (Nation-State). Aaron noted that the Negara Bangsa (Nation-State) has become one of the primary focuses under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP). The ministry is actively conducting engagement sessions nationwide to develop the Negara Bangsa (Nation-State) Action Plan, leading to the Negara Bangsa (Nation-State) Conference scheduled for this October.
Discussing SMP 2025, Aaron mentioned that the celebration, themed ‘Harmony in Diversity,’ aims to foster harmony among people of various faiths in Malaysia. The event reflects the reality of a plural society by promoting values of understanding, respect, and acceptance as the foundation of national unity.
SMP 2025 features over 40 main activities, including the ‘Rumah KAMI’ exhibition, Kadazan Dusun and Orang Asli villages, the ‘Malaysia Tanah Airku’ exhibition, ‘Susur Masa’ exhibition by the Department of Museums, the National Library Pavilion, Food Unites, MADANI Sales, local handicraft and product sales, a durian fiesta, the Penang Book Festival, and cultural performances.
The event attracted more than 250,000 visitors from various backgrounds, religions, and cultures, making SMP 2025 a lively platform that showcased the true spirit of Malaysian unity.