Eastern Region Records High Unity Score As Malaysia Strengthens Social Cohesion Efforts

KOTA BHARU, April 11 (Bernama) -- The Eastern Region of Peninsular Malaysia recorded one of the highest scores in the National Unity Index (IPNas), achieving 0.741 in 2025, said Deputy Minister of National Unity, R. Yuneswaran.

He said the achievement reflects strong community values, tolerance, and close social ties among the people in the region, with Pahang recording the highest score nationwide.

At the national level, Yuneswaran noted that Malaysia registered an IPNas score of 0.701 in 2025, placing it at a moderately high level of unity.

“IPNas serves as a strategic instrument to help the government identify gaps and determine appropriate interventions, ensuring that every policy contributes meaningfully to strengthening unity,” he said when closing the Eastern Zone 2026 Unity Week celebration here today.

He emphasised that unity remains the core foundation in nation-building.

“The concept of a nation should not be narrowly defined by a single race or culture. Instead, it is shaped by people of diverse races and religions who are united under a shared national identity,” he said.

However, he cautioned that ongoing challenges must still be addressed, particularly those related to ethnicity, media influence, politics, and socio-economic disparities.

“In facing these realities, a general or one-off approach is no longer relevant to address unity challenges.

“The government is now adopting more strategic and targeted measures, focusing on strengthening unity across education, community engagement, and socio-economic development,” he added.

Yuneswaran also called on individuals to play an active role as agents of unity within their families, communities, and workplaces.

“Simple actions such as interacting, cooperating, and fostering understanding can have a significant impact in building a strong and united nation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA