‘Liberal’ in Rukun Negara explained

National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang urged all parties to stop misinterpreting the meaning of the word “liberal” found in the ideals of Rukun Negara.

He said one of Rukun Negara’s objectives is to “guarantee a liberal approach to its (the nation’s) rich cultural traditions and diverse patterns”, where the word “liberal” refers to an attitude of openness and acceptance (Understanding, Respect and Acceptance) of cultural differences among the races and ethnicities.

“People are free to practise their respective religions, customs and cultures in accordance with the interests of national unity,“he said in a statement yesterday to explain the word “liberal” in the Rukun Negara.

He said the ideals of Rukun Negara affirm the principles that are the basis for the formation of a united, democratic, fair, liberal and progressive Malaysian society.

“The application of liberal values (openness to cultural differences among races) in society will help create a more inclusive, dynamic and progressive environment, as well as give every individual the opportunity to grow and contribute to the development of the country in a positive way.”

Explaining the process of the Rukun Negara’s formation, Aaron said the National Consultative Council consisting of 13 national figures from various racial backgrounds and expertise had produced the Rukun Negara as a new national philosophy.

Rukun Negara was also drafted based on the seven main pillars that had been put forward through the “Pillars of Nation” paper.

“Finally, Rukun Negara was drafted and organised into two parts, which are five ideals and five principles. The ideals and principles of Rukun Negara were later translated into a form of national philosophy or ideology.”