Unity in Diversity

Date : 14 November 2011 Venue : Botani Café Activity : 5.0 - Unity in Diversity When we talk about unity in diversity what came across to my mind is the late award-winning director Yasmin Ahmad. She touched many of us through her advertisements that thrived on various themes – love, family and unity – against the backdrop and essence of our multiracial Malaysia. Since independence, national unity has always been the main agenda of the Government. The 1Malaysia concept aims to strengthen the relationship among races, based on mutual trust and respect for each other. This can begin in schools. Unity in the 1Malaysia concept is not about creating a singular hegemonic society. Instead, it is about accepting the uniqueness of other races, appreciating the plurality of Malaysia and working together as one nation towards a better, harmonious future. Hence, the key to this concept is “unity in diversity”, which ensures a healthy inter-personal relationship. Racial and cultural diversity is an excellent topic to teach our young children, who form many opinions about themselves and the people around them. This is when their natural curiosity about differences in appearance and cultural backgrounds really begins to come into play. They can learn to appreciate or devalue others who are different from them. Hence, this is a significant point of time to shape their attitudes about race and cultural diversity, to make them realise that diversity provides an assortment of benefits that can enhance any classroom. The University is one of medium as well this EEP programme that conducted by lecturers are one of the main pillars in delivering the aspirations of the 1Malaysia concept. They bear the weight and responsibility of teaching and, apart from parents, are the main source of knowledge and values for students.