National Harmony Act Needed To Strengthen Unity - Lee Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR, April 5 (Bernama) -- A National Harmony Act should be introduced to strengthen ethnic relations, promote mutual respect and safeguard national unity in Malaysia, said Unity Advocate Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. 

He said in an increasingly complex and diverse society, harmony cannot be left to chance but must be nurtured through clear principles, fair mechanisms and strong institutional support.

Lee said Malaysia’s multiracial, multireligious and multicultural fabric has long been the country’s greatest strength.

“However, recent years have shown that misunderstandings, insensitive remarks, racial and religious provocations, and divisive narratives, particularly those amplified through social media, can quickly erode trust among communities.

“These developments underscore the urgent need for a comprehensive legal framework that promotes unity while preventing actions that threaten social cohesion,” he said in a statement today.

Lee said a National Harmony Act would provide clear guidelines to promote respect, tolerance and peaceful coexistence, while addressing acts that incite hatred, hostility or discrimination without undermining legitimate freedom of expression.

Rather than focusing solely on punitive measures, he said the act should emphasise reconciliation, mediation and restorative justice, as many disputes stem from misunderstanding rather than malicious intent.

“A dedicated law would allow early intervention before minor disputes escalate into major tensions. This preventive approach is crucial in maintaining long-term national stability,” he said.

Lee said that the act would encourage responsible behaviour among public figures, community leaders and social media users to ensure public discourse does not inflame sensitivities.

National harmony, he said is closely linked to political stability, investor confidence and social wellbeing, and is vital to Malaysia’s standing as a moderate and inclusive nation.

Lee also stressed the importance of establishing a National Harmony Commission to ensure effective implementation of the proposed act.

“The Commission must be independent, credible and inclusive, with representation from all communities, as well as experts in law, sociology, human rights and conflict resolution,” he said, urging all stakeholders to support the initiative.

--BERNAMA