Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to focus on the larger issues shaping the nation's future and avoid being drawn into divisive matters. He emphasized the importance of Malaysia's unity, which stems from the mutual respect for cultural and religious differences in its multiracial society, as the foundation for stability and prosperity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted the need to uphold human values and nurture cultural and economic strength to ensure a bright future for the younger generation. During his speech at the Huazong Chinese New Year 2026 celebration, he pointed out that Malaysia sometimes gets too caught up in minor issues, neglecting the importance of a strong economy and growing investments essential for providing jobs and quality education.

Among the attendees at the event were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, and Huazong president Datuk Lim Kah Chuan. Anwar underscored Malaysia's unity through collective festive celebrations, emphasizing the strong mutual respect among its people regardless of race or background.

The Prime Minister reiterated that while Islam's position as the religion of the Federation and the status of Bahasa Melayu as the national language are protected in the Federal Constitution, other communities are guaranteed the right to practice their respective faiths. He also stressed the benefits of accommodating and encouraging the development of other languages, noting that Malaysians should accept the status of Bahasa Melayu and understand the country's history, while also learning English and Chinese due to their economic significance.