Kuala lumpur: Any discussion on unity in Malaysia's plural society must take into account the country's historical development and be anchored in the Federal Constitution as the primary point of reference. Former Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) deputy vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Mohd Fadzil Abd Rahman emphasized the importance of the Federal Constitution as a foundational document that underscores the nation's diverse society, which evolved through a historical process marked by negotiation and compromise during the country's independence in 1957 and the formation of Malaysia in 1963.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Fadzil asserted that respecting the Federal Constitution equates to acknowledging the foundation upon which Malaysia was built. He cautioned that any rhetoric undermining the existence or rights of any group would erode trust among Malaysians. The rapid spread of racially charged statements on social media necessitates a greater role for civil society, academia, and the media in ensuring public discourse is grounded in facts and mutual respect.

Meanwhile, National Council of Professors (MPN) Fellow Prof Dr Azmi Hassan highlighted Malaysia's ethnic and racial diversity as a unique strength that should be harnessed to nurture national identity and patriotism among the younger generation. He noted that this diversity has been integral to the nation's development from before Independence and continues to be pivotal in fostering unity.

Azmi further explained that the Chinese and Indian communities in Malaysia have become an integral part of the Malaysian identity, with no ties to their ancestors' countries of origin after several generations. He emphasized the need for the younger generation to engage in learning, relearning, and unlearning processes to build a more inclusive nation.

Associate Professor Dr Mohd Azhar Abd Hamid from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia's (UTM) Research Group on Nationhood and Social Well-being underscored the importance of history as a source of lessons for the country's future. He advocated for experiential learning opportunities in educational institutions to help young people appreciate the importance of unity.

Azhar pointed out that today's leaders have a greater responsibility to use language and rhetoric that unite rather than divide, given the rapid reach of their statements. He stressed that unity must be reflected in policies and actions, with AI being guided by ethical principles to strengthen unity rather than deepen polarization.