PETALING JAYA: Malaysians must rise above racial and political differences and remain united to safeguard national harmony, peace and prosperity, says Nga Kor Ming.
The Housing and Local Government Minister said the country's diversity should be viewed as a strength, with mutual respect and understanding serving as the foundation for a stable and progressive nation.
“Just as every instrument in an orchestra must play in harmony to create beautiful music, Malaysians from all backgrounds must remain united and work together to ensure peace, stability and prosperity for the nation,” he said.
Nga said this when officiating the Taiping International Youth Marching Band Festival 2026 in Taiping on Saturday (June 13).
He said music, with its different tempos and rhythms, serves as a reminder that diversity is not a weakness but a strength when guided by a shared purpose.
“In a country blessed with rich diversity, we must always respect and understand each other's differences. Turning against one another will not help the country prosper but will only cause greater damage and instability,” he said.
As the country moves closer to the election season, Nga urged Malaysians not to allow political differences to divide society.
“We must uphold the spirit of maturity, respect and unity, just as musicians playing different instruments remain focused on producing one harmonious performance for the benefit of all,” he said.
Nga said Malaysia's ranking among the world's 12 most peaceful countries in the Global Peace Index was an achievement that all Malaysians should be proud of.
“Under Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's leadership, Malaysia has been selected as one of the top 12 most peaceful countries in the world,” he said.
He said the participation of youth marching bands from Malaysia, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia and Hong Kong reflected how music could bring people together across cultures and borders.
“Music transcends barriers of race, religion, language and nationality, making it a universal language that fosters friendship, inspires hope and strengthens bonds between communities,” he said.
Nga added that a world-class city should not be measured solely by economic development, saying music, culture and the arts were equally important in creating a vibrant and inclusive environment.
He also commended the organisers, educators, volunteers, sponsors and community partners whose collective efforts helped transform the festival into a successful international event showcasing Taiping's heritage and Malaysia's cultural richness.
“When music unites us, we must continue to build bridges and not let others build walls that divide us,” he said.
