Ipoh: The spirit of race and religion will not be eroded even if students from various races, religions, and cultures study together under one roof or school, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He emphasized that the diversity of society in Malaysia is a strength that needs to be celebrated and not questioned because it is the foundation for national unity and harmony.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar highlighted Malaysia as a country of various races, religions, and cultures, where children from different backgrounds such as Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Orang Asli can socialise as one team of Malaysian children. He made these remarks during the 'Sumbangan Kasih MADANI' Ceremony in conjunction with Deepavali 2025 at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Poi Lam.

Also present at the event were Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad and Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming. Anwar stressed the importance of fostering a spirit of respect and honoring the cultural diversity within Malaysian society.

The Prime Minister noted that Malaysia is unique in its joint celebration of festivals such as Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali every year. This practice, he said, symbolizes the spirit of mutual respect among races, which is the core of the nation's strength. "This (celebration) is how we honour culture, respect each other's language and culture, and this is how we bind our national unity," he added.

Earlier, at the same ceremony, Anwar, who is also the Member of Parliament for Tambun, presented contributions to representatives of 15 schools involving 2,500 students in the Tambun Parliamentary constituency.