Interfaith youth forum reinforces appreciation for Rukun Negara principles

In an effort to strengthen national unity through deeper interfaith understanding, youths from diverse backgrounds gathered at Universiti Malaya (UM) for a forum focusing on the role of religious literacy in appreciating the principles of the Rukun Negara.

Held from 9am to 1pm at Seminar Room 2, Academy of Islamic Studies, the forum titled “Memupuk Perpaduan Nasional: Kefahaman Agama Sebagai Asas Penghayatan Rukun Negara” brought together participants aged between 18 and 33 for discussions on the relationship between religion, civic responsibility, and social cohesion in Malaysia’s multicultural society.

The half-day programme was jointly organised by Architects of Diversity and Universiti Malaya, with sponsorship support from UMCares and the DUN Templer constituency office.

Designed as a free and inclusive platform, the event aimed to encourage open dialogue on how greater understanding and respect for different faiths could reinforce the Rukun Negara as a shared national framework. Organisers also provided breakfast, lunch, and certificates of participation to attendees.

Although Selangor State Executive Councillor Y.B. Puan Anfaal Binti Saari had been scheduled to officiate the forum, organisers announced that she was unable to attend due to official commitments.

Despite her absence, the event proceeded with a panel comprising academics and representatives from major faith-based organisations, offering participants a broad perspective on the importance of interfaith engagement in nation-building.

Panelists highlight shared values across faiths

Among the speakers was Mashitah Sulaiman, who discussed how universal religious values such as compassion, justice, and respect naturally align with aspirations for national peace and unity.

Representing the Buddhist community, Poh Pai Ling shared insights on the role of empathy and mutual respect in fostering harmonious communities, while Gowri PS Thangaya highlighted the importance of recognising common cultural and moral values among Malaysians of different backgrounds.

Throughout the discussions and question-and-answer sessions, the forum focused on three key objectives: increasing awareness and appreciation of the Rukun Negara, strengthening religious literacy to counter misinformation and prejudice, and integrating intercultural understanding into civic education.

Speakers stressed that understanding another person’s faith should not be viewed as a threat, but rather as a pathway towards building trust and reducing social divisions.

By the end of the programme, participants left with what organisers described as a renewed sense of responsibility in promoting unity and mutual respect within their communities.

The forum also underscored the growing role of youth-led and community-driven initiatives in encouraging constructive conversations on national identity and social harmony in an increasingly diverse Malaysia.