Proud Malaysians: (From left) Nurfatyha, Venishaa, Mukmin, Kwong, Choong, Nurul Aina, Nurul Izzati and Shuhaidah. — AZMAN GHANI/The Star
KUALA LUMPUR: Put differences aside and come together to celebrate our diverse cultures and traditions to preserve the country’s unity, say young Malaysians. Entrepreneur Nurfatyha Farhana, 24, said Malaysians should continue to embrace the diversity that the country is blessed with.
“The fact that we share a lot of common things such as sports, food and celebrations – including the National Day – is what unites us all.
“As Malaysians, we should stick together and I hope the new generation will continue to enliven our diversity,” she added.
Student Larra Venishaa, 18, said the diversity of Malaysian culture and food is what makes her love the country the most.
She is hopeful that Malaysians, regardless of backgrounds, will come together amid challenges.
“To all the Malaysians, don’t bother about race because we are all one Malaysia, we are all family. Malaysia Boleh!”
Musician Mukmin Hamdan hopes for Malaysians to continue staying united for the future.
“Everything brings us together, from sports to our love of food.
“We also need to continue being tolerant of different races and cultures.
“I also hope that our various cultures can be further promoted abroad as they symbolise our diverse yet united front,” said the 40-year-old.
May Kwong said Malaysian unity has come a “long way”.
“We’re all working together towards the same goal and to be one as Malaysians.
“We’re all here to celebrate this weekend... all races, traditions together,” said Kwong, who organised the Pasar Merdeka Hitam Putih Festival at Central Market here.
Freelancer Choong Lihva, 31, said Malaysians are able to put aside their differences and live under one roof for the country.
“We’re all friendly and even share the holidays together!
“We work well together, regardless of our skin colour,” she said.
Executive Nurul Aina Amiela said Malaysia’s diverse population is indeed one of its unique values.
“In Malaysia, we do not just have the Malays, Chinese and Indians, there are also the diverse ethnic groups from Sabah and Sarawak with each having its own culture.
“I hope we continue staying united as this is our strength,” said the 24-year-old.
Nurul Izzati Ahmad Roslan and Shuhaidah Ainaa, both 24, described Malaysia’s food as a uniting point for its people.
“There are so many foods that each race enjoys. Take roti canai for example, every Malaysian loves it!” said Nurul Izzati.
“Food itself brings us together,” agreed Shuhaidah.
