NATIONAL Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang has emphasised that the essence of unity must be cultivated within the family before it can be meaningfully reflected in wider society, as he conveyed his festive greetings to the Tamil and Sikh communities in Malaysia in conjunction with Tamil Chitirai Puthandu and Hari Vaisakhi.
In a Facebook post on Tuesday, he extended his wishes, saying, “Happy Tamil Chitirai Puthandu and Hari Vaisakhi to all Tamil and Sikh communities in Malaysia.
“The new year symbolises a fresh beginning filled with inspiration, hope and determination.
"This is the time for us to renew our resolve, strengthen humanitarian values and nurture a stronger spirit of unity in our daily lives,” he said.
He further underscored the importance of the family institution as the cornerstone of national cohesion, noting that values such as respect, love, tolerance and mutual understanding are first instilled at home.
“Children raised in a harmonious environment will grow into individuals who appreciate diversity.
“Therefore, every parent and family member plays an important role as early educators in shaping a generation with strong character and noble values,” he said.
Aaron said unity does not originate from formal platforms or grand occasions, but from everyday interactions within households.
“Unity does not begin on big stages, but at the dining table, in the living room, and in every daily interaction within the family.
“When these values are consistently nurtured, they will form a strong foundation for harmony in Malaysia’s multi-racial and multi-religious society,” he said.
He added that national strength is inseparable from unity, warning that progress would be undermined without it, while stressing Malaysia’s diversity as a key national asset.
“However, with strong unity, Malaysia can stand tall as a peaceful, inclusive and progressive nation.
“Our diversity is not a weakness, but the country’s greatest asset that must be preserved and celebrated together,” he said.
He concluded by expressing hope that the festive celebrations would bring happiness, prosperity and well-being to all Malaysians while further strengthening unity across communities. - April 14, 2026
