National interests must transcend racial, religious differences, says Aaron

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said that in conjunction with the 63rd Malaysia Day celebration, the people are also urged to continue respecting one another, sharing common values, and preserving the unity and harmony that are the foundations of the country’s peace, stability and prosperity. — Bernama pic

First Published: Wednesday, 16 Sep 2026 9:23 AM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 16 — Malaysians need to continue strengthening their sense of belonging and shared identity in the effort to build a strong nation-state, with national interests surpassing racial, religious and regional differences.

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said that in conjunction with the 63rd Malaysia Day celebration, the people are also urged to continue respecting one another, sharing common values, and preserving the unity and harmony that are the foundations of the country’s peace, stability and prosperity.

“After 63 years, the diversity of races, religions, cultures, languages, and customs in Malaysia continues to be a treasure and strength of the nation. From Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah and Sarawak, each community contributes to Malaysia’s unique and rich face.

“However, behind all the differences, we share the same identity, we are Malaysians. This sharing of identity is the foundation of the country’s peace, stability nd prosperity,” he said in a Facebook post.

Aaron said that despite diversity, all citizens share a common identity as Malaysians, which in turn becomes an important foundation in building the country’s future together.

The formation of Malaysia on Sept 16, 1963, was the result of a process of negotiation and mutual understanding that began with a proposal put forward by Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj in 1961, followed by the Cobbold Commission, the Inter-Governmental Committee and a series of negotiations.

The process also involved figures such as Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, Tun Fuad Stephens, Tun Datu Mustapha Datu Harun, Temenggong Jugah Anak Barieng and Stephen Kalong Ningkan, whose contributions became among the foundations of the nation’s formation.

“Happy Malaysia Day 2026. Malaysia belongs to all of us and Malaysia is our shared responsibility,” he added. — Bernama