Reflecting on More than Sixty Years of Malaysia’s Unity in Diversity

66 years ago, the triumphant cries of 'Merdeka' marked our liberation from British colonisation. However, it wasn't until September 16, 1963, that we took another significant step by uniting East and West Malaysia, officially becoming one nation.

In the decades that followed, we've celebrated the rich heritage and culture our motherland offers – from its diverse cuisine to vibrant arts and colourful festivities, Malaysia is indeed a microcosm of Asia. Yet, as a proud Sarawakian who ventured to West Malaysia to lead an independent life after completing high school, I've come to realise that misconceptions still persist, dividing our East and West Peninsula.

Questions like "Are you guys poor?" or "Do you guys live in trees?" often greet Sabahan and Sarawakian friends when meeting their West Malaysian counterparts. While such inquiries may seem ignorant, they often stem from misunderstandings about our unique geographic environments rather than a lack of modernity.

In a nation celebrated for its unity among Malays, Chinese, and Indians, it's worth noting that there's still a lack of representation and inclusivity for lesser-known groups like the Dayaks, Kadazan-Dusuns, Sikhs, and others. While encouraging curiosity is important, it's even more critical to emphasise that we are all integral threads of one unified Malaysia—a nation that has evolved into a remarkable mosaic of diverse ethnicities, languages, cultures, and religions.

But – are we genuinely united in this diversity? Have we fully harnessed the potential of our multicultural nation, or do we merely pay lip service to the idea of unity in diversity?

Diversity should not merely be a buzzword; but rather, it should be the cornerstone to our greatness. It empowers us to draw from a wealth of perspectives, experiences, and talents, strengthening our nation's adaptability. 

In healthcare, diverse medical professionals offer holistic care. In education, diverse perspectives foster creativity and critical thinking. In our social fabric, the richness of our cultural tapestry helps us appreciate the beauty in our differences. 

My college campus, in particular, provides a profound opportunity to embrace diversity and broaden one's perspective. In the time I have spent here, I have had the privilege of meeting people from various backgrounds, each with unique stories and viewpoints. These interactions challenged my preconceptions, expanded my horizons, and reinforced the idea that unity in diversity is not just a national slogan but a personal commitment to understanding and celebrating differences.

Listening to the stories passed down by our grandparents, of the transition from colonial rule to the Malaysia we know today, fills us with excitement. As we commemorate National Day and Malaysia Day, these festivities symbolise our reconnection with our historical roots and a shared resolve to craft a future that is distinctively ours.

For us, the younger generation, unity in diversity is not an abstract concept; it's our lived reality. The diverse cultures, languages, and traditions have woven themselves into our lives, adding depth and meaning.

In this era of globalisation, where information travels rapidly across the globe at the click of a button, we cannot afford to be complacent. We must remain vigilant and proactive and be proud of our role as stewards of this harmonious tapestry of diversity.

Witnessing National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations fills me with immense pride. The fusion of cultural performances, unity through flag-waving, and shared excitement for our future create a unique atmosphere. As young Malaysians, we have a solemn duty to preserve this unity, ensuring a more inclusive and peaceful future while honouring our past. Our unity in diversity is a guiding light, preparing us for every Hari Kebangsaan and Hari Malaysia.

Our identity is forged through accepting all ethnicities, not just the visible ones. This togetherness guides us toward growth, just like our national dish, nasi lemak, blends delicious components into harmony. Let us march forward, fuelled by our diversity and brought together in unity.

It remains a poignant testament to our shared journey, celebrated diversity, and unwavering unity. Let's embrace our differences, but let's also critically examine whether we are making the most of our diversity. Understanding and celebrating diversity unlock our nation's true potential, making us not just great but exceptional, ensuring that, despite differences, we remain one.

Nicole Lee Zhi Xuan is currently in her second semester at Taylor’s College, studying Foundation in Arts.