Unity in Cultural Diversity

Unity In Cultural Diversity. By: Ting Hua Jian

Many years before Malaysia has been formed, the indigenous tribes are the owner of this land, living in a harmonious and peaceful life. Now, Malaysia is a country populated by various ethnic, racial and culture. The occurrence of unity in Malaysia has created a peaceful and caring society. The success of integrating Malaysia’s various ethnic groups would be established in a united u nited Malaysian society. Thus, the national un ity had become a scale to ensure that our country is moving on the right path. As we know, Malaysia is a nation which group by diverse races and culture throughout througho ut the migration in the late 18th century. Sharing and integrating various culture has transformed a mixed and unique culture that make us more precious regarding cultural heritage than the other nations. Cuisines perform a great role in combine the races together in this land. For instance, nasi lemak are widely well-known and it cultivates the spirit of unity with one another in the coffee shop or hawker stalls. There are no differences when it comes to Chine se local cuisines such as Hainanese chicken rice that are quite popular among the Malaysian. Everyone with different family backgrounds, all sit together and eat all kind of foods among themselves. Traditional cuisines and local dishes eventually become one of the pride and strength to wipe off the rumors that affect our unity. Malaysians love to celebrate, and most importantly, the par ticipation of other races in festivals has become a habit and a sign of integrating various culture in everyday life. Malay, Chinese, Indian and other native tribes in east Malaysia come with an open heart to join other races celebration. For example, Harvest festival or called “Pesta Kaamatan” is a thanksgiving festival to celebrate the rice harvest. The festivities include traditional sports such as buffalo race, beauty contest, con test, and rice wine competition. Every race in one village celebrates and participate the event together with love, peace and full of joy. Besides that, Christmas are enjoyed by all with the same spirit and fervor. Buying and

exchanging gifts with the loves one shown the spirit of unity to live together happily in the blessed land. Furthermore, people from different ethnic backgrounds have distinct sets of traditional attire that reflect their cultures. Various kinds of beautiful clothes in Malaysia can be seen everywhere especially celebrating the national day. Malay and Chinese wearing Kurta and Sari joining their Indian friends celebrate Deepavali. Ethnic costumes worn by Malaysians show their vibrant cultural heritage and a symbol to remind us that the unity makes us stronger and a multi-racial society. National costume likes Batik clothes and “Baju Kurung” wear by all ethni c during a formal occasion like attending the official ceremony or working in government sector. National attire represents the identity of nationalism that rich in diversity culture. In fact, wearing traditional clothes of another race in Malaysia does not make a person lose his identity but reflects the lives of a plural and united society. The gap between races can be reduced by having a clear minded and good understanding diverse cultures in Malaysia.  As a conclusion, national unity in cultural diversity is the key to the success of the nation. Relentless efforts must be made by everyone to promote a culture of peace, harmony, and unity. Malaysians should use every opportunity to strengthen the spirit of unity through greater interaction with one another in all spheres of human activity. This unity is essential in order to contribute towards making Malaysia a developed nation by 2020.