By Suhaila Shahrul Annuar
SHAH ALAM, Feb 23 — The Gagasan Rumpun Selangor stands as a key framework to unify the populace and subsequently propel the state’s socioeconomic development, said Menteri Besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari.
He said a cohesive society serves as the cornerstone for propelling the state’s economic progress, benefiting all strata of society.
“It stands as one of the primary reasons behind our economic success, as it’s grounded in stability and mutual understanding. Despite differences in skin colour, beliefs and faith, our objectives are harmonised under the banner of Kita Selangor
“Gagasan Rumpun Selangor is a continuation of the foundation laid by ‘Kita Selangor,’ which will serve as a canopy and framework to strengthen unity among us all,” he said at the officiating ceremony of the Explorasi Gagasan Rumpun Selangor in Hulu Selangor last night.
Earlier in the event, Raja Muda of Selangor Tengku Amir Shah unveiled the official logo of the Gagasan Rumpun Selangor.
Meanwhile, Amirudin said this framework also aims to nurture a community that champions and reinforces the spirit of Malaysian nationalism by fostering unity amidst diversity.
“Some may take it for granted after we gained independence, but just look at this region, how fragile a country’s system can be without collective safeguarding.
“The state government’s Gagasan Rumpun Selangor aims to ensure the state’s wealth and resources are shared with all. It fosters unity and Malaysian nationalism akin to a tree with diverse branches but shared roots and aspirations,” he said.
Amirudin said Selangor stands as a melting pot of the nation, boasting unparalleled diversity among its populace compared to any other states in Malaysia.
“We not only accommodate people from the southern states like Melaka and Johor, and northern regions like Perlis, Penang, or Kedah, although some may deny it.
“But even beyond Kelantan and Terengganu, there exists a substantial contingent of residents hailing from Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.
State executive councillor for unity Datuk Rizam Ismail, who was also present last night, said Selangor is the heart of national unity, serving as the axis of diversity with people from different backgrounds.
“This highlights the importance of the state not only as a major contributor to the national economy, but also as the axis of diversity with people from various states, religions, ethnicities and cultures, akin to a ‘mini Malaysia’.
“So, it is not only necessary to strengthen our economy but also for Selangor to be the core in building a narrative of unity that can unite people of various ethnicities under the Gagasan Rumpun Selangor,” he said.
The Gagasan Rumpun Selangor grassroots initiative was introduced to strengthen the spirit of national unity in the state.
Its implementation includes six main agendas, namely carnivals and explorations; policies; unity songs; structuring and empowering village leadership institutions; branding of educational institutions for children; and promotion and advocacy programmes for the people.
Previously, during the tabling of the 2024 Selangor Budget, Amirudin announced an allocation of RM4.5 million to ensure the successful implementation of the Gagasan Rumpun Selangor in all nine districts.