By Asma Abdullah
Recent cases of public figures making insensitive remarks or acting in ways that offend minority communities have hit the headlines.
These incidents have highlighted once again concerns over ethnic and religious harmony. They raise critical questions about the state of unity in the country and the steps needed to foster genuine inclusivity.
Why does this matter?
While legal actions and suspensions may serve as immediate deterrents, they do little to address the root causes of the problem.
So what is the long-term solution? Fostering intercultural understanding and promoting respect across different ethnic and religious groups.
We cannot just react with outrage alone. We must work towards systemic change through education, policy reforms and community engagement.
The rise of social media has played a key role in shaping public discourse. Social media allows for greater awareness of social injustices. But then, it has also contributed to heightened polarisation.
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An ‘outrage culture’ often amplifies issues without addressing their underlying causes. So we must find a way to use digital platforms constructively and foster conversations that lead to solutions rather than deeper divisions.
In recent years, Malaysia has witnessed increasing ethnic and religious tensions. These are often fuelled by political rhetoric.
Politicians and public figures must recognise their responsibility in shaping a more harmonious society. Reckless statements that exploit ethnic sentiment for political gain will erode the foundations of unity. Those who engage in divisive rhetoric must be held to a greater level of accountability.
Who needs to act?
Public figures and the media – Public figures, especially those in the media, wield significant influence over public discourse and must be held to higher standards of accountability. Media outlets should enforce stricter guidelines on cultural representation to prevent insensitive portrayals. The authorities should be proactive role in monitoring content related to religious and cultural practices to ensure that nothing offensive slips through unchecked.
Policymakers and educators – At the national level, policymakers must enforce laws that deter hate speech. They should also promote inclusive policies. Schools should integrate multicultural education into their curriculum, teaching students about Malaysia’s diverse heritage and the importance of mutual respect. Media platforms should prioritise responsible reporting, avoiding sensationalism that fuels discord.
Communities and individuals – At the community level, interfaith and intercultural dialogues should be encouraged to break down misconceptions and stereotypes. Grassroots initiatives, such as cultural exchange programmes and neighbourhood events, can create opportunities for ordinary people to interact and build meaningful relationships across ethnic and religious lines.
How can we preserve harmony?
To achieve lasting unity, we must embrace the six core values of “Madani” – sustainability, compassion and care, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust. These values provide a firm foundation for intercultural understanding and national harmony.
- Sustainability ensures long-term social cohesion
- Compassion and care foster empathy towards different communities
- Respect is vital in acknowledging cultural and religious differences
- Innovation allows for creative solutions in bridging divides
- Prosperity must be shared equitably to prevent economic disparities from fuelling division
- Trust in institutions and each other strengthens social bonds
Individuals also play a crucial role in fostering unity. Instead of engaging in reactionary outrage on social media, people should focus on constructive discussions that promote understanding.
Challenging biases within personal circles, supporting inclusive initiatives, and being mindful of language and actions can contribute to a more harmonious society.
The path forward
Ultimately, we must ask ourselves: are we progressing toward a more inclusive society – or are we becoming increasingly divided?
The choice to foster unity and mutual respect lies not just in how we respond to controversies. We need also to address the broader societal structures that allow them to occur.
Genuine change requires sustained effort from all levels of society – from policymakers to individuals in their everyday interactions.
Malaysia’s diversity should be its strength, not a source of division. Only through continuous dialogue, education and responsible leadership – guided by Madani values – can the nation move towards a future where mutual respect is the norm rather than the exception.
Asma Abdullah is an interculturalist based in Kuala Lumpur.
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