Dealing with differences: issues and challenges of multiculturality in Malaysia

Abstract

Multiculturality is not a new phenomenon and Malaysia is no exception. The diverse nature of the people in Malaysia and the ability to live in harmony and to maintain political stability so far manifest the sense of tolerance and reciprocity in practice. Sharing a single space for people from different background is not simple and trouble-free. It often cause chaos and instability. This is what happened in Malaysian history. However, misunderstanding can be minimized if there is a sense of commonness notwithstanding cultural or ethnics or even religious differences. This paper discusses a number issues pertaining diversity and multiculturality with reference to Malaysian experience. This includes the state of ethnic relations, the common values as well as the prospects of and challenges of creating sense of commonness among the diverse cultural fabrics of the Malaysian society.