Unity Day Highlights Malaysia's Strength In Diversity - Bernama Chairman

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- Unity does not mean uniformity, but about standing together despite differences, said Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chairman Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai.

Speaking at the Wesley Methodist School Kuala Lumpur International's (WMSKLI) Unity Day 2025 here today, he said the annual event served as an important reminder of the values that bind the nation, highlighting how Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity.

“Nothing is more meaningful than taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of Malaysia - a country made rich by its diversity - and to focus not on what sets us apart, but on what brings us together,” he said.

Underscoring the importance of shared values such as compassion, respect and kindness, Wong said ordinary Malaysians are inherently good and united by these values, adding that the vast majority believe in unity, harmony and mutual respect.

“And we must never tire of reminding ourselves of this truth. Let us not be swayed by the loud voices of a small minority who promote hate and division,” he said.

Wong, who is also a National Journalism Laureate, said unity is about recognising, valuing and supporting one another, by listening with empathy, helping without being asked and standing together, especially in difficult times.

Officiated by Human Resources Minister Steven Sim, the Unity Day was also attended by the Methodist Council of Education (MCOE) private education director Lim Kah Cheng and WMSKLI principal Wong Chee Kheon.

In conjunction with the event, Sim also launched WMSKLI’s polygenre anthology book on unity, titled The Recipe for Malaysia’s Success, which was recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records as the first bilingual polygenre anthology on unity published by a school.

The book features a diverse collection of literary genres, including pantun, syair, gurindam, poems, anecdotes, short stories and articles - all written in bilingual format by students, educators and 30 guest writers.

Wong is among the contributors to the book, alongside Senator Datuk Seri Prof Emeritus Dr Awang Sariyan, social activist Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye, National Journalism Laureate Tan Sri Johan Jaafar, National Laureates Datuk Dr Anwar Ridhwan, Datuk Dr Siti Zainon Ismail and Prof Emeritus Dr Muhammad Salleh, as well as veteran actress Datuk Rosnani Jamil.

Meanwhile, MCOE’s private education director said the successful production of the book is a step towards changing public perception of international schools, which are often viewed as lacking a Malaysian identity.

The initiative, added Lim, proves that such schools are also capable of instilling patriotism and upholding the use of the Malay language among students.

-- BERNAMA