Nation-building is Malaysia’s shield against identity politics - Unity Minister
He warned that without a robust framework, society would remain vulnerable to divisions that could threaten national security and social cohesion.
PUTRAJAYA – Nation-building stands as the primary safeguard in uniting Malaysians amid ideological differences, identity politics and the pressures of globalisation, ensuring long-term harmony within the country’s plural society.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang stated that nation-building forms a crucial foundation for peace, stability and national unity, particularly in an increasingly complex global landscape.
He warned that without a robust framework, society would remain vulnerable to divisions that could threaten national security and social cohesion.
“In today’s global reality, shaped by social media, ideological differences, and identity politics, nation-building serves to unite the people under a shared national identity without denying racial, religious, and cultural diversity,” the Minister said during the 2026 Address Ceremony on Tuesday.
The National Unity Ministry has adopted "Together Building the Nation" as its theme for 2026.
This aligns with the Madani Government’s aspirations under the 13th Malaysia Plan, which establishes nation-building as a core pillar of national development.
Aaron stated that the country faces multifaceted challenges, including widening social polarisation, rapid digital transformation, demographic shifts and rising public expectations for government service delivery.
“In this situation, the National Unity Ministry bears a major responsibility to act as a bridge of unity within a diverse society,” he added.
He further clarified that nation-building is not merely a political concept but a strategic necessity.
It ensures that citizens feel a sense of ownership over the nation, share common values and remain responsible for preserving peace and progress.
He identified loyalty to the country, respect for the Federal Constitution, and the internalisation of the Rukun Negara as the core pillars of this effort.
To ensure these aspirations are clearly understood, the Ministry will continue its engagement sessions and roundtable discussions, culminating in a Nation-Building Conference in September 2026.
This conference is expected to yield a National Nation-Building Master Plan, serving as a key reference for all stakeholders and government agencies.
The Minister also expressed his appreciation to the Higher Education Ministry for introducing the "Nation-Building Aspiration" course at higher learning institutions, designed to strengthen young people’s understanding of citizenship and constitutional rights.
Regarding specific ministerial initiatives, Aaron outlined five main nation-building clusters: Tunas Madani, Komuniti Madani, Harmoni Madani, Rakyat Madani and Warisan Madani.
“Tunas Madani aims to nurture patriotic youth, while Komuniti Madani focuses on strengthening grassroots unity.
“Harmoni Madani emphasises inter-community harmony, Rakyat Madani celebrates artistic and cultural diversity, while Warisan Madani preserves and elevates the nation’s cultural heritage and identity,” he said.
During his address, the Minister also recognised unity officers, museum curators, archival officers and librarians as "National Social Engineers" who play a vital role in fostering social bonds.
Reflecting on the achievements of 2025, he stated that the Ministry successfully implemented 762 unity programmes, including campaigns based on the Unity Ecosystem, Rukun Negara Exploration and various socio-cultural community initiatives.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
