KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 9 — Malaysians put on a show of harmony at the launch of Unity Week and Semarak Galur Gemilang yesterday.                          

People from all walks of life, including kindergarten children, were at the Titiwangsa Lake Park to witness the launch of the programme, which included games and cultural exhibitions and the singing of patriotic songs such as Jalur Gemilang.

They agreed on one thing — people should put aside their differences and live together in harmony.

Sidek Yusuf, a 35-year-old driver, said: “Racism should never exist in the Malaysian vocabulary. As a multiracial nation, there should be no room for racism.

“However, it is quite disappointing when some individuals stir up racial issues.”

He said he was thankful the government had taken the initiative to unite the people through such events.

Beautician Lily Hor, 56, said racial segregation was detrimental to the country’s growth.

“As Malaysians, we have a role to play to bring the country to greater heights. Disharmony will not benefit us,” she said.

“Let us not fight with one another anymore but stand together to work for the betterment of our country.”

Fire officer Vasu Devan, 58, recalled that when he was growing up in the 1960s, he could have meals with other races without trouble.

“Today, many have segregated themselves by race. It is a good idea to have this Unity Week event that brings the races together and celebrate unity,” he said.

Vasu said that during his trips to Sabah and Sarawak, he observed that the people lived together harmoniously, unlike in the peninsula.

“We should follow their example and once we can look past our differences, then we will be truly become 1Malaysia,” he said.

Housewife Syahira Othman, 28, said there would be unity when every Malaysian received equal rights.

“Race-based policies have been one of the factors contributing to the strife among the people,” she said.

“All Malaysians should be given equal rights in education, business and governmental support.”

Minister at the Prime Minister’s Department Tan Sri Joseph Kurup, who launched the event, said history had proven unity was the catalyst for the country’s progress and development.

“Without unity, communal harmony in various spheres of life would not be enjoyed by all,” he said.

Asked about the National Harmony Act, he said the government was engaging non-governmental organisations, politicians and the public opinions on racial unity.

“We are looking into creating more awareness on unity through the programmes that are being planned, and also to educate the public on the importance of national harmony,” he said.