LETTER | Beginning Jan 1, 2025, Malaysia will officially take on the role of chair of Asean. During this period, the emphasis will be on fostering inclusivity and sustainability as key components in the development of a unified regional community.

This raises the question: have we, as a diverse Malaysian society, made sufficient strides in promoting inclusivity within our nation-building initiatives?

John Hume, a former member of the European Parliament once said, “Difference is of the essence of humanity. Difference is an accident of birth and should therefore never be the source of hatred or conflict. The answer to difference is to respect it. Therein lies a most fundamental principle of peace: respect for diversity.”

While some progress may have been achieved, the extent of this progress remains questionable. Undoubtedly, there is significant room for improvement, as we must be committed to fully embracing inclusivity rather than taking a half-hearted approach. In for a penny, in for a pound!

In today’s interconnected world, the significance of inclusivity is increasingly evident, especially within a multicultural society like Malaysia. In Malaysia, inclusivity holds significant importance because of its potential to foster a more equitable society.

Embracing inclusivity would enable every citizen to actively engage in and reap the nation’s growth and development benefits. This nation, characterized by its rich diversity, comprises various races, religions, cultures, and beliefs, each contributing to a dynamic tapestry that reflects the spirit of coexistence.

Exclusion intensifies the anxiety surrounding differences. I mean, think about it, when we exclude people, it’s like that one aunt who always complains about the food - it just creates a bunch of unnecessary drama.

In contrast, inclusion promotes a culture of acceptance. The challenge remains in ensuring this diversity is celebrated, cultivating a society where every individual feels valued, respected, and included.

Defining inclusivity

Inclusivity involves creating spaces where individuals, irrespective of their backgrounds, are welcomed and encouraged to engage fully in society. It transcends mere tolerance of differences; it embodies a dedication to understanding, respecting, and appreciating those differences.

In a multicultural framework, inclusivity signifies the recognition of unique identities while fostering unity amidst diversity.

An inclusive society benefits everyone. When individuals are treated with respect and valued for their unique contributions, they develop a sense of belonging that is crucial for both personal and collective growth.

This environment encourages the exchange of perspectives and ideas, which in turn fuels innovation and creativity. Research has shown that diverse teams tend to be more productive in the workplace.

Promoting inclusivity at every level

To enhance inclusivity, it is essential to adopt proactive strategies across various sectors of society, including education, politics, community involvement, and the workplace.

Education serves as a vital instrument for shaping perspectives. A curriculum that encompasses a wide array of cultures enables students to value diversity from an early age.

Schools can host multicultural activities that provide students with opportunities to share their unique backgrounds and experiences, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

This way, we can avoid creating a “cultural smoothie”. Instead, we ought to celebrate our diverse identities and strive toward a common goal of inclusivity.

Political representation holds equal significance. Decision-making processes must include a multitude of perspectives, ensuring that diverse voices are acknowledged.

Let’s not forget, that when we give underrepresented groups a seat at the table, and a decent cup of teh tarik, they are way more likely to show up, speak up, and own the democratic process.

When leaders reflect the demographics of their communities, trust is built, and policies are more likely to address the needs of all citizens. Initiatives aimed at increasing minority representation can empower underrepresented groups and motivate their participation in the democratic process, enhancing their sense of ownership.

Community organisations play a pivotal role in uniting individuals. Programmes designed to facilitate dialogue among different ethnic groups can help dismantle barriers and build relationships. Seriously, we can get pretty cliquey sometimes.

Activities such as communal meals, cultural festivals, and workshops can help rid pesky layers of “trust deficit” among communities and deepen understanding and appreciation of one another.

In the workplace, organisations can foster inclusivity by adopting policies that promote diversity in hiring and professional development.

By prioritising a diverse workforce, companies can better connect with clients and stakeholders, reflecting the demographic realities of their customer base and creating an inclusive environment.

Conclusion

Inclusivity in a multicultural society is not merely an aspirational goal but a fundamental requirement for progress and harmony. It demands dedication and action at all societal levels.

Former UN secretary-general Kofi Annan said, “We may have different religions, different languages, different coloured skin, but we all belong to one human race”.

By embracing our diverse identities and striving for a shared vision of inclusivity, we lay the groundwork for a more unified, resilient, and thriving Malaysian community.

That way, we can build a Malaysian community that’s as resilient as a plate of nasi lemak, as vibrant as a CNY celebration, and as awesome as a well-curated Deepavali Spotify playlist.

The views expressed here are those of the author/contributor and do not necessarily represent the views of Malaysiakini.