KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today stressed that Malaysia’s diversity should not undermine intercommunity relations but instead be harnessed as a source of strength to build a more prosperous and progressive nation.
Speaking at a ceremony to commemorate the late Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, Anwar said this is in line with Malaysia’s coat or arms motto ‘Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu’ (Unity is Strength), chosen by the Father of Independence, who firmly believed that differences could enhance the nation’s strength.
The prime minister expressed his deep admiration for Tunku Abdul Rahman, noting that no individual in Malaysia’s history has been able to unite the hearts of all races as the country’s first Prime Minister did.
“Differences can divide and breed hatred, but Tunku Abdul Rahman believed from the very beginning that diversity could fortify our nation.
“He consistently championed national unity, first with the states of the Federation of Malaya, and later with Sabah and Sarawak, embracing the diversity of races and cultures… Tunku Abdul Rahman was truly one of the founding pillars of the country’s principles,” Anwar said.
