The National Association of Private Educational Institutions stated that in spite of 66 years of independence, racial stereotyping is an issue, and called upon educators to play a role in strengthening unity among the rakyat.

For example, they cited the Malaysia Madani concept which is rooted in six core values as useful in forging unity, and these are namely sustainability, compassion, respect, innovation, prosperity and trust.

The association stated that educators are driving initiatives that celebrate the country’s rich cultural tapestry and this is seen in the way teachers organize students to host festivals representing Malaysia’s diversity.

According to them, teachers act as catalysts to guide and direct students in their education to ensure that the following generations will appreciate and embrace the rich diversity of Malaysia’s races, religions and cultures.

While educators aim to foster unity, in a broader context, family and communal dynamics continue to be influencing factors and skewed media reporting only serves to reinforce race and religious biases among students.

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris school of social communications added that media portrayal plays an important role in shaping Malaysian society, especially perceptions and attitudes and therefore people have to be wary and cautious.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE