What does it mean to be Malaysian, and how can the younger generation play a meaningful role in preserving the nation’s unity?
These questions took centre stage as Universiti Kuala Lumpur (UniKL), in collaboration with Akademi Kenegaraan Malaysia (AKM) under the Prime Minister’s Department, organised Program Khas Aku Kasih Malaysia: Jejak-Jejak Negara Bangsa on 15 October 2026 at UniKL Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology (UniKL MIAT), Sepang.
The initiative brought national history, cultural diversity and civic responsibility into focus, encouraging university students to look beyond academic achievements and reflect on their roles in shaping Malaysia’s future.
Organised through UniKL MIAT’s Centre for Student Development, the programme was held in a hybrid format, with physical participation at Theatrette 1, UniKL MIAT, and online access through the official Facebook platforms of UniKL and AKM.
At the heart of the programme was a forum titled “Menyusuri Sejarah, Identiti dan Jiwa Malaysia”, featuring Datuk Haji Yahaya Abdullah and Associate Professor Dr. Roy Anthony Rogers, with Encik Muhammad Azri Nor Azman serving as moderator.
The discussion invited students to revisit Malaysia’s historical journey, explore the foundations of national identity and reflect on the importance of unity in a multicultural society.
Beyond understanding historical events, the forum encouraged participants to appreciate how Malaysia’s diverse communities, cultures and perspectives contribute to a shared national identity.
An interactive Kahoot quiz complemented the discussion, offering students an engaging way to test their knowledge of Malaysia while reinforcing key messages on history, unity and civic awareness.
By combining expert perspectives with interactive learning, the programme sought to make national history and citizenship education more relatable to younger generations.
Delivering the opening address, Associate Professor Dr. Tuan Salwani Awang @ Salleh emphasised that Malaysia’s diversity should be recognised as a source of strength rather than division.
“Our diverse backgrounds should be a strength in reinforcing unity. It is therefore our responsibility to preserve harmony and carry forward the legacy of previous generations for Malaysia’s future,” she said.
Her message reinforced the programme’s central theme that nation-building is a shared responsibility, one that extends beyond institutions and national celebrations into the everyday lives of Malaysians.
The initiative also supported the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, particularly the values of Hormat (Respect), Ihsan (Compassion) and Keyakinan (Trust), by encouraging students to appreciate different perspectives and contribute positively to society.
Through these discussions, participants were encouraged to recognise that meaningful citizenship is reflected not only in knowledge of national history but also in actions that promote mutual understanding, inclusivity and social harmony.
These efforts contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4: Quality Education, through citizenship education and appreciation of cultural diversity; SDG 16: Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions, through the promotion of peaceful and inclusive societies; and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, through collaboration between UniKL and AKM.
