Importance Of Unity In Malaysia

What is unity? According to Merriam Webster unity means the quality or state of being made one. Meanwhile, the Oxford Dictionary explains the term as being in agreement and working together. Aesop (1867) through The Four Oxen and the Lion said that “United we stand, divided we fall”. As per say, many world leaders talked about the unity including our own Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib Abdul Razak. He introduced the 1Malaysia slogan to foster unity among all races in Malaysia hence address themselves as “Bangsa Malaysia” or Malaysian race. He understands that unity is essential in keeping Malaysia prosperous and move in the right direction.

Malaysia is a multiracial country consists of various ethnic groups such as Malays, Chinese, Indians and others. Each has their own language, customs and beliefs. Religion wise these people practice Islam, Christian, Hindu, Buddha, Sikh and etc. Despite all the differences they manage to live together in harmony side by side. The important thing is to adopt the value of understanding and tolerance. “We may have different religions, different languages, different coloured skin but we all belong to one human race” - Kofi Annan. Sports proved to be an essential tool that can foster social integration among Malaysians where politics and religion have failed.

The Malaysian sports minister Mr. Khairy Jamaluddin once

The early objective was to ensure the security and safety of residents in certain areas as there were threats upon national unity. But later in 1984, it was changed into neighbourhood concept in order to promote the spirit of friendship and unity. Then in year 2001 they adopted the community development approach where the whole community was targeted. Then finally the model transformation neighbourhood watch was created with five pillars which are unity, economy, security, education and quality of