National Unity Index reaches seven-year high, reflecting stronger cohesion among Malaysians
PUTRAJAYA, Feb 24 — Malaysia’s National Unity Index (IPNas) has reached its highest level in seven years, recording a score of 0.701 in 2025, signalling stronger cohesion among the country’s diverse population.
Unity Minister Aaron Ago Dagang said the improvement reflects the positive impact of ongoing efforts to strengthen national unity.
He said the steady increase in the index demonstrates growing public confidence in governance and stronger social bonds across communities.
“The index has risen steadily over time, from 0.567 in 2018 to 0.629 in 2022, and has now reached 0.701.
“This represents significant progress and meets the target set under the 12th Malaysia Plan,” he said.
He said the Governance and Development component was the largest contributor to the overall score, accounting for 69.7 per cent.
This component reflects public perceptions of government performance, including transparency, fairness, and efficiency.
It also includes perceptions related to economic management, security, public services, and infrastructure.
Other contributing components include National Ethos, which accounted for 46.7 per cent, followed by Ethnicity Level at 34.7 per cent and Cross-Ethnic Social Relations at 31.4 per cent.
Aaron said these elements collectively help strengthen unity in Malaysia’s multicultural society.
However, he said further work is needed to improve inter-ethnic relationships and build a more inclusive national identity.
He said the government will continue implementing targeted programmes to strengthen national integration.
Sarawak recorded the highest regional unity score at 0.791, followed by the Eastern region at 0.741.
Sabah and Labuan scored 0.726, while the Southern region recorded 0.719.
At the state level, Pahang recorded the highest unity score at 0.817, followed by Melaka at 0.816 and Sarawak at 0.791.
Kelantan, Perak, and Kedah recorded scores below the national average.
Aaron said the overall results show that Malaysia’s unity remains strong and continues to improve.
-wilayah.com.my
