PUTRAJAYA: The recent Cabinet reshuffle is a positive step as far as fostering national unity is concerned, said the National Unity Minister, Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
The reshuffle saw two more agencies being placed under the ministry: the Indian Community Transformation Unit (Mitra) and the Penang Hindu Endowment Board.
In his speech at his ministry’s “curtain raiser” event for the year, Aaron said the reorganisation of the units and departments under his ministry would further strengthen the three objectives of the National Unity Policy.
Elaborating further, he said the objectives are strengthening national unity based on the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara, forming national identity, and raising Malaysians who appreciate and practise unity.
He said finding strength amid the country’s diversity is the key to boosting the country’s performance and prosperity.
“Cooperation between government agencies across portfolios is crucial to realising the goals of Madani development and national unity.
“The ministry has taken the approach through programmes to close the social gap among Malaysians while celebrating cultural diversity, customs, celebrations, and heritage.
“This also aligns with the ministry’s theme of cultivating unity and celebrating diversity,” he said before he presented the yearly report of his ministry’s achievements and its upcoming plans for 2024, along with welcoming his new deputy, Saraswathy Kandasami.
“The role of the Unity Ministry has become more significant with the restructuring of government agencies.
“The ministry is looking to restructure its divisions and a proposal paper will be submitted to the Public Service Department,” said Aaron before honouring selected media organisations for their role in nation building.
In particular Star Media Group’s (SMG) crucial role in fostering harmony and unity in Malaysia has been recognised by the government.
For its sterling effort, the group was honoured with a certificate of appreciation, with the media group represented by its chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng.
SMG was one of the 15 media recipients of the award meant for those who make a positive impact through their reporting.
