KUALA LUMPUR: Despite a population of various races, religions and ethnicities, Malaysia has remained a strong and harmonious nation which has helped it to prosper.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the close ties among the multi-racial and multi-religious societies in the country were built on the foundation of mutual understanding, tolerance and care for each other.
Such a spirit, said Ismail Sabri, was adopted by the government to establish a new philosophy in the country's administration that is the "Gagasan Keluarga Malaysia".
"And such a philosophy was reflected in the 12th Malaysian Plan (12MP) and the 2022 Budget to ensure all people reap benefits from the country's development agenda.
"I want to stress here again that no one will be left behind under the Keluarga Malaysia philosophy," said Ismail Sabri in his speech at the launching of the 2021 National Family Month celebration at the Perdana Botanical Garden here today.
Present were Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Rina Harun, Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Noraini Ahmad and Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Shahidan Kassim.
Also in attendance was Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.
Ismail Sabri also announced that starting this year, the annual National Family Month will be known as the Keluarga Malaysia Month celebrations.
The celebration, which is usually held in November, he said, will serve as a platform to strengthen ties and enhance inclusivity among people from various races and religions in the country.
Ismail Sabri said a more united society will subsequently help the nation prosper.
"Apart from participation from ministries and state governments as the main drivers of the programme, the government hopes the private sector, non-governmental organisations and the community will take part to ensure the objective of the programme to protect the wellbeing of the people," he said.
Elaborating on the rebranding of the celebrations, he said this was in line with the objectives of the National Family Policy to develop the wellbeing of families so they are healthy, strong and resilient in facing future challenges.
"The Keluarga Malaysia concept will remain as the philosophy in the country's administration.
"And the government is committed to give the best (provide the best delivery) to the people," he said.
At the same event, Ismail Sabri also announced that he would chair the Keluarga Malaysia Foundation which has been allocated RM25 million to assist children who became orphans after their parents died from Covid-19.