PENGKALAN HULU: The National Unity Ministry will introduce more programmes that promote public understanding of Malaysia’s diverse cultural celebrations, including those of minority communities such as the Siamese, to ensure national harmony, says Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
The National Unity Minister said cultural heritage serves as a bridge to unite the people as one nation, regardless of ethnicity, religion or cultural background.
“This is the role of our ministry – we celebrate all festivities as a sign of respect for the diversity in this country.
“We must understand that Malaysia is home to several ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture – and it is something we embrace and celebrate,” he told Bernama after launching the 2025 national-level Songkran Celebration in Kampung Tasek yesterday.
Also present was Siamese Association of Malaysia president Sam Maark Suvanphet.
Aaron said fostering an understanding of the country’s rich cultural diversity would help cultivate greater awareness among Malaysians, ultimately paving the way for a more united and harmonious nation.
He said the Madani government, under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, had allocated RM1mil in Budget 2025 to carry out initiatives to preserve the culture and language of the Siamese community in Malaysia.
Aaron said this is crucial, not only for strengthening unity and nation-building, but also to ensure all ethnic groups in Malaysia – including minority communities – receive rightful recognition for their contributions to the nation.
The three-day Songkran festival, which began on April 11, was enlivened with a variety of exciting activities, including a traditional Songkran parade, cultural exhibition and traditional food display.
