KUALA LUMPUR: Neighbourly social interactions stand as a cornerstone for building strong and supportive communities, especially in a multiracial country like Malaysia, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye (pic).
The Unity Advisory Council member said Malaysia is a nation celebrated for its rich tapestry of ethnicities, languages, and cultures.
"This diversity is an asset, enriching our nation in countless ways.
"Neighbourly social interactions serve as the glue that binds this diverse nation together. These interactions transcend differences, fostering understanding, empathy, and unity among communities," he said when contacted on Sunday (March 9).
Lee said regular interactions with neighbours build trust, which is vital in a multicultural society. When people know and trust each other, they are more likely to resolve conflicts amicably.
"Neighbourly interactions provide opportunities for cultural exchange.
"Sharing traditions, festivals, and meals with neighbours from different backgrounds promotes tolerance and appreciation.
"Strong neighbourly bonds create resilient communities that can come together in times of crisis, be it natural disasters or social challenges," he added.
Close-knit neighbourhoods often engage in small-scale economic activities, supporting local businesses and enhancing the community's economic well-being, he said.
"On the flip side, when neighbourly interactions break down, the consequences can be dire.
"Lack of communication can lead to misunderstandings, perpetuating stereotypes, and biases," he said.
Isolated communities are more susceptible to extremist ideologies and less likely to seek peaceful resolutions to disputes, Lee said.
"A fractured society cannot harness its full potential for progress and development.
"Communities divided along racial or ethnic lines erode the social fabric of the nation," he said.
Encouraging community events, dialogues, and educational programmes that celebrate diversity is a start can ensure neighbourly interactions thrive in society, he said.
"By knowing our neighbours, we are more likely to notice signs of tension or disputes and intervene early to prevent them from escalating.
"Some neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur had previously been holding regular street parties to foster friendship and neighbourliness.
"The National Unity Ministry could take the initiative and start the ball rolling to start and encourage similar activities," he said.
ENDS
tags: social, interactions, neighbourly, Lee Lam Thye, multiracial, unity, Unity Advisory Council
