The role of multiculturalism in the policies of Malaysia to achieve unity in diversity

Malaysia, a multiracial, multi-ethnic and multicultural country comprising different races, ethnic groups, religions, and cultures, has to be aware of the differences in building everyday living whilst preserving some of their origins and identity for its society. Multiculturalism can be understood as thinking and talking about differences by recognising, observing, tolerating, and actively engaging these differences in any society's social characteristics and governance problems. The Canadian Multiculturalism Model has successfully addressed multicultural issues, and Malaysia must have a Multiculturalism Policy Framework. Therefore, it is suggested that Malaysia adopt the Canadian Multiculturalism model as a guide as it is designed to improve the quality of intercultural relations among all cultural communities within the plural society. The methodology of this research approaches three programme components, namely the Cultural, Intercultural, and Communication components while comparing Malaysia's current practices and history in this area. A brief examination of Singapore in matters of Multiculturalism is also debated. A discussion is debated on how Malaysia can achieve these noble components through social, political, communication and cultural policies to achieve 'Unity in Diversity, to bring about a tolerant society that respects and engages all racial communities, major or minor.