MIRI, June 22: The National Unity Index Survey (IPNas) has revealed significant insights into the state of unity across Malaysia, with Labuan achieving a high score of 0.9 on a scale where 1.0 represents perfect unity.
Sarawak, however, scored 0.6, indicating that there is still considerable progress to be made.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang disclosed these findings on Saturday during the launch of the ‘Karnival Perpaduan’ at Bakam Point, Miri.
“This year, we appointed Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) to study the unity index, and the research is currently underway,” he stated.
Meanwhile, on the Karnival Perpaduan, Aaron said it serves as a crucial platform for promoting unity and well-being among Malaysia’s diverse racial, religious, and cultural communities.
Aaron, who is also a Kanowit MP, highlighted the carnival’s role in educating the community to appreciate the values of unity that have been integral to Malaysia since its independence.
The celebration of Unity Week (Sambutan Minggu Perpaduan or SMP) is a central programme under the Vibrant Unity cluster, aimed at spreading knowledge and fostering an understanding and appreciation of Malaysia’s diverse customs and cultures.
“Harmony needs to be preserved, nurtured, and applied within ourselves before being passed on to the next generation. Each of us has a role to play in maintaining the harmony, sovereignty, peace, and security of our country,” he said.
Attending the event were Deputy Minister for Health Malaysia Datuk Lukanisman Awang Sauni, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports, and Entrepreneur Development Datuk Dr Ripin Lamat, and National Unity Ministry secretary-general Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof.
More than 20 programmes were held during the three-day event, which kicked off on Friday.
The Unity tour series has already visited Sabah, Labuan, Terengganu, Penang, and Negeri Sembilan, spreading the message of unity and fostering stronger bonds among Malaysia’s diverse communities. — DayakDaily
