Focus on 'civilisational harmony' over division, Anwar says
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s rich diversity, shaped over millennia by different cultures and religions, must be protected against the rise of divisive identity politics, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasises the importance of civilisational harmony and unity over division. He warns that toxic identity politics and populism, fuelled by anti-immigration sentiments, ethnic hatred, and xenophobia, are growing globally, posing a threat to democratic processes. Anwar believes that Malaysia, with its diverse cultures and religions shaped over millennia, must protect itself against the rise of racial and religious tensions.
At the Islam-Confucian Civilisational Cultural Festival, Anwar stresses that politics should not allow differences to fester into permanent sources of division. He urges all right-minded people to shun reckless and vile attempts to fracture society. Anwar asserts that identity should not be used as a tool to create societal rifts.
Instead, Malaysia's engagement with global partners, like China, reflects a commitment to multicultural harmony and civilisational exchange. He emphasizes that the world does not need more walls but more bridges, and that living together does not require abandoning one's identities. Instead, it demands confidence in understanding one's traditions while remaining open to the wisdom of others.
Anwar calls for honouring the tradition of civilisational exchange and renewing the spirit of learning and mutual respect to address contemporary global challenges.
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