NATIONAL Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang has urged Malaysians to become more responsible digital citizens, warning that the increasing influence of social media presents significant challenges to national harmony and social cohesion.
In conjunction with the Wesak Day celebrations, Aaron called on the public to uphold human values, strengthen unity and cultivate a more ethical and mature digital culture capable of navigating the complexities of an increasingly connected society.
He said this year's national Wesak Day theme, Navigating the Digital Era, Nurturing Shared Wisdom (“Mendepani Era Digital, Memupuk Kebijaksanaan Bersama”), carries an important message at a time when social interactions and public discourse are increasingly shaped by online platforms.
According to Aaron, the digital age has transformed the way communities communicate, but it has also amplified risks associated with misinformation, hate speech, extremism and irresponsible online behaviour.
“In today’s digital world, unity is tested not only in the real world but also on social media. A single post can unite society, while a slander can destroy national harmony,” he said in a Facebook message marking the occasion.
The minister cautioned that the rapid spread of unverified information and divisive narratives has the potential to undermine social trust and damage the foundations of Malaysia's multicultural society.
He stressed that the values underpinning the MADANI framework, including mutual respect, compassion and social sustainability, must be practised not only in physical communities but also across digital platforms.
“What we write, share and comment on reflects the maturity of our society. Every citizen has a responsibility to be an agent of unity, not one who spreads hatred.
“Malaysians need to be a mature digital society, to think before sharing, verify before believing and respect even when views differ,” he said.
Aaron emphasised that preserving harmony in the digital era requires collective responsibility, with individuals playing an active role in preventing the spread of falsehoods and promoting constructive dialogue.
He also highlighted the importance of interfaith engagement as a cornerstone of national unity, describing dialogue between different religious communities as one of the most effective ways to foster understanding and strengthen social bonds.
The MADANI Government, he said, views interfaith dialogue as a crucial platform for bridging differences, reducing misunderstandings and building lasting respect among Malaysia's diverse ethnic and religious communities.
Aaron noted that Malaysia's stability and prosperity have long been rooted in its ability to embrace diversity, arguing that the nation's multicultural character remains one of its greatest strengths.
He said the continued celebration of cultural and religious diversity is essential to preserving national harmony and ensuring future generations inherit a society built on mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
His remarks came ahead of Wesak Day, the most significant holy day in the Buddhist calendar, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment and passing of Siddhartha Gautama, the founder of Buddhism.
As Malaysians mark the occasion, Aaron called on citizens of all backgrounds to reflect on the values of wisdom, compassion and understanding, particularly as the nation navigates the opportunities and challenges presented by the digital age. - May 30, 2026
