Kuala lumpur: The Kembara Bahasa Menjulang Budaya programme at Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Kampong Salang serves as a platform to strengthen unity and foster regional ties between Malaysian and Thai students, allowing them to learn about each other's cultures and ways of life, said the Ministry of National Unity.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministry's secretary-general, Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid, stated that the three-day cultural exchange programme, which commenced on Friday, involved 150 Rukun Negara Club students from SK Kampong Salang, 25 students each from Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Tamil Kangar and Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina Hwa Aik, Arau, along with 40 students and 30 teachers from Bankhun School in Satun, Thailand.

Datuk Haslina emphasized the importance of such programmes, stating that they create opportunities to understand each other's cultures, traditions, languages, and ways of life. She highlighted that differences should act as a bridge that unites through mutual respect and understanding. She expressed confidence that the students would gain new knowledge and experiences while fostering values of unity, tolerance, and international camaraderie.

The initiative, she noted, also aligns with Malaysia's role as ASEAN Chair for the year, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties with Thailand in education, culture, and regional unity. The National Unity Ministry remains dedicated to enhancing Rukun Negara initiatives in schools, higher education institutions, and communities to cultivate a knowledgeable, disciplined, and responsible generation.

Datuk Haslina underscored the importance of embracing the five Rukun Negara principles not just in official club activities but also in daily life, as they contribute to building a society that respects one another, collaborates effectively, and remains united.