Call for February 8 to be declared National Unity Day

The Penang State Goodwill Consultative Council (MPMNPP) has called on the government to officially declare February 8 as National Unity Day, a day dedicated to celebrating and reinforcing racial harmony across Malaysia.

MPMNPP believes that a nationally recognised Unity Day would highlight the country’s commitment to unity in diversity, a cornerstone of Malaysia’s social fabric.

Honouring historic February 8 for national unity

MPMNPP selected February 8 for its historical significance.

On this day in 1956, the delegation led by Tunku Abdul Rahman reached an agreement with the British government, setting August 31, 1957, as the official date for Malaya’s independence.

The date is significant, not only for marking a step towards independence but also as Tunku Abdul Rahman’s birthday, further symbolising the spirit of unity he championed as the Father of Malaysia.

According to MPMNPP Chairman Tan Sri Mohd Yussof Latiff has already been commemorating Unity Day on this date at the state level since 2003.

The council sees February 8 as a perfect choice for a national holiday that would inspire Malaysians to reflect on and celebrate their diverse heritage.

“This country is made up of people from various ethnic backgrounds, and we should create a day known as Unity Day, celebrated collectively by all races, through a range of activities focused on fostering racial harmony,” said Mohd Yussof.

State-level celebrations and call for national recognition

Each year, Penang celebrates Unity Day with events and activities focused on building goodwill and mutual respect among all races.

MPMNPP hopes that with government backing, these celebrations can extend nationwide.

In a letter to Minister of Unity Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, the council formally proposed the official designation of National Unity Day on February 8.

The council is ready to discuss and collaborate with the Ministry of Unity to make this proposal a reality.

“We hope the government will observe National Unity Day on the same date, allowing it to become a historic milestone for our nation,” said Mohd Yussof.

MPMNPP envisions February 8 as an opportunity for Malaysians to come together, participating in activities and dialogues that reinforce understanding and cohesion across racial lines.

By making Unity Day a national observance, the council aims to ensure that unity remains at the heart of Malaysia’s social and cultural identity, commemorating the achievements of past leaders while paving the way for future harmony.

This proposed National Unity Day would serve as a reminder of Malaysia’s founding values and provide a unifying occasion for Malaysians of all backgrounds to celebrate their shared future.