Nga Kor Ming: Let Political Differences Not Lead to Confrontation; Urges All Ethnicities to Move Forward Together Like a Symphony Orchestra

(Kuala Lumpur, 14th) Minister of Housing and Local Government Nga Kor Ming stated that as Malaysia gradually enters the election season, the people should not become confrontational due to differing political stances, but instead cooperate with and complement each other like members of an orchestra, working hand in hand to safeguard national harmony, stability, and the well-being of the people.

He continued, just as every instrument in a symphony orchestra must coordinate and harmonize to play beautiful music, the people of all ethnicities in Malaysia must unite and cooperate together to maintain peace, stability, and prosperity for the nation.

He pointed out that the different rhythms and melodies in music are a reminder that diversity is not a weakness, but rather an advantage formed through mutual respect, understanding, and a shared goal.

Nga made these remarks in his speech at the opening ceremony of the "2nd Taiping International Youth Marching Band Festival 2026," stating that in a country with a rich and diverse cultural background, people must always respect and understand each other's differences, as confrontation only brings harm and instability to the country rather than facilitating its development.

He also said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar, Malaysia was ranked as the 12th most peaceful country in the world by the Global Peace Index, an achievement all Malaysians should cherish and be proud of.

Speaking about this year's music festival, he noted that youth marching bands from Malaysia, Japan, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Hong Kong have gathered together, demonstrating that people of different cultures and nationalities can still coexist harmoniously and collaborate despite their different backgrounds.

He said that music transcends limitations of race, religion, language, and national boundaries—it is a universal language for fostering friendship, inspiring hope, and strengthening cross-community connections.

“A world-class city should not be assessed based solely on economic development. Music, culture, and the arts are equally indispensable elements in shaping a world-class city environment.”

He also praised the efforts and cooperation of the organizers, educators, volunteers, sponsors, and community partners for successfully making this music festival an international event that showcases Taiping's cultural heritage and Malaysia's rich and diverse cultural charm to the world.

He hopes that the friendships forged by the participants during the music festival will continue even after the event and calls on all citizens to uphold the respect, discipline, understanding, and unity demonstrated in music, making these the foundations for building a stronger and more harmonious nation.

“When music brings us together, we should continue to build bridges of communication and unity, rather than allowing some to erect high walls that divide society.”