KOTA BHARU, June 9 — The integration level among Malaysians is strong, with the National Unity Index (IPNas) consistently improving each year, said National Unity Ministry secretary-general Datuk Azman Mohd Yusof.
This indicates the ministry's programmes and initiatives are succeeding, which have fostered a strong understanding and unity among the country's diverse ethnic groups.
Drawing from the encouraging feedback, Azman said they aim to raise the IPNas to 0.7 per cent through a study scheduled for this year, a notable increase from the previous year's 0.6 per cent.
"The ministry has implemented various programmes and initiatives to strengthen community unity, including the Jejak Harmoni programme, which fosters religious understanding and cooperation with leaders from various ethnic groups.
"Through this programme, we discuss activities to promote mutual respect for each other's religions and educate the public about unity. Our goal is to foster understanding without crossing any boundaries," he told the press at the National Unity Week closing ceremony in Kelantan today.
Elaborating, Azman acknowledged that there are individuals or groups attempting to incite or provoke racial sensitivities, particularly on social media, often due to their misunderstanding of government policies.
"We have established the e-Sepakat system at the ministry to receive complaints, including those on sensitive issues and the 3Rs (race, religion, and royalty)," he said.
Recognising that relying solely on the system is inadequate, the ministry also engages in outreach and education at the community level.
"Through this system, we have received 47 complaints thus far, and each month, we report these issues or complaints to the Cabinet," Azman said.
He assured that the situation is currently under control, with the ministry collaborating with various agencies and enforcement bodies on national unity issues.
— Bernama
