The unity of peoples is the responsibility for a common future

National Unity Day is celebrated in Russia on Nov 4, a holiday that simultaneously addresses our history, present day and the future.

For Russia, which has developed a unique community of ethnic groups over the centuries, this holiday has a special value. It symbolises not only historical memory and patriotism but also the importance of realising everyone's responsibility for the fate of the country, its prosperity and the well-being of future generations.

A history lesson facing the future

The historical basis of the holiday was the events of 1612, when the people's militia led by merchant Kuzma Minin and Prince Dmitry Pozharsky liberated Moscow from foreign invaders during one of the most dramatic periods of Russian history – the Time of Troubles. Representatives of different classes and regions rallied to defend statehood, in the interests of overcoming internal divisions and restoring peace in their native land. This experience shows that in the most difficult moments in the history of states, it is not the differences between people that are crucial but what brings them together – love of the Motherland, a sense of duty, mutual support and a willingness to put common interests above private differences.

National unity is a strategic priority of Russia

Russia is a multi-national and multi-religious state in which representatives of more than 190 peoples and ethnic groups have lived for centuries. Each of them contributes to the common cultural heritage of the country, preserving their own languages, customs, artistic traditions and identity. At the same time, diversity does not exclude unity; on the contrary, it enriches it.

Vladimir Putin, President of the Russian Federation, in his speeches, has repeatedly stressed the importance of strengthening interethnic harmony and unity and mutual respect between the peoples of Russia. In accordance with the Presidential Decree, 2026 has been declared the Year of Unity of the Peoples of Russia, which underlines the strategic importance of this topic for the state and society.

Russia and Malaysia: diversity as the basis of national unity

Reflecting on the significance of National Unity Day, one cannot help but draw a parallel with Malaysia, a country that is also a vivid example of a multi-national and multi-religious society. The national cohesion of representatives of various ethnic communities forms a unique, harmonious and peaceful image of the Malaysian people.

In this context, Russia and Malaysia have a lot in common. We are united by the understanding that diversity is an important national asset and mutual respect and the desire for harmony are of fundamental importance for the stability and progressive development of the state. In both Russia and Malaysia, representatives of different cultures make a significant contribution to the development of the economy, science, education, art and public life, creating the basis for strengthening national unity.

I am convinced that Russia-Malaysia cooperation, based on the principles of equality, mutual respect and consideration of each other's interests, has significant potential. Our countries have a lot to offer each other, not only in trade, economic and technological spheres but also in the fields of culture, education and humanitarian collaboration.

I would like to quote one of my favourite Malaysian proverbs, which, in my opinion, very accurately reflects the nature of bilateral relations: "Jauh di mata, dekat di hati" (far from sight but close to the heart). Russia and Malaysia are separated by thousands of kilometres, located in different parts of the world and have their own historical and cultural heritage. However, all this is not an obstacle to the development of friendship, mutual interest and cooperation between our peoples.

N. LATYPOV

Russian Ambassador to Malaysia