YB Datuk Aaron Ago (right) shares a light moment with Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Siti Hamisah (left) after officiating the launch of Harmoni-Mesra Week

Distinguished VIPs gathered on stage during the launching ceremony

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s National Unity minister YB Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang officially launched UCSI University’s Harmoni-Mesra Week 2025, an initiative dedicated to promoting national unity and cultural harmony.

Inspired by the spirit of Merdeka and the principles of the Rukun Negara, HMW 2025 aims to foster empathy and strengthen unity among Malaysia’s diverse communities.

The Minister emphasised that this initiative is closely aligned with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani, which envisions an inclusive society built on harmony and mutual respect.

“Unity is strength, not division, and Harmoni-Mesra reminds us that despite our differences, we share a common destiny as Malaysians. It is vital that we continue to build bridges of understanding and respect across all communities,” said YB Datuk Aaron.

“We are looking beyond unity towards the vision of negara bangsa - a united nation where all elements of unity come together. This long-term objective requires close collaboration among all stakeholders to build a harmonious and inclusive Malaysia.

“The Ministry is committed to advancing this vision through policies and initiatives that strengthen social cohesion and mutual respect. Harmoni-Mesra complements these efforts by providing an important platform to promote dialogue, celebrate our diversity and promote harmony and inclusivity across Malaysia.”

He applauded UCSI’s commitment to promoting unity and encouraged other universities and agencies to take similar steps in advancing the national agenda for peace and integration.

UCSI University vice-chancellor and president Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Siti Hamisah Tapsir said that the emphasis on Harmoni-Mesra is both timely and timeless.

“At UCSI, we are determined to uphold the principles of the Rukun Negara. Harmoni-Mesra serves as our North Star – it reminds us of who we are and what we must do to ensure that the campus is a harmonious, inclusive and safe space for students around the world,” she said in her opening speech.

“It is a powerful reminder that our actions on campus have a ripple effect, contributing to a more inclusive and prosperous society for all.”

This week-long event promotes dialogue and celebration to honour Malaysia’s diversity, aligning with the national unity agenda and United Nations’ SDG 16 for peace and justice.

Present at the launching ceremony were Ministry of National Unity secretary-general Dato' Haslina Abdul Hamid, National Unity and Integration Department director-general Zulkifli Hashim, Ministry of National Unity's National Integration Division secretary Norihan Mohamed Naim and UCSI University Council member Prof Emeritus Tan Sri Dr Omar Abdul Rahman.

Ranked in the world’s top 1% in the QS World University Rankings 2026 by virtue of its top 269 ranking, UCSI stands out as one of Asia’s top private universities.