KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 14 — Open houses, social visits and neighbourly ties should be cultivated throughout the year, rather than only during festive seasons, said National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.

He said such practices could strengthen bonds among Malaysia’s multiracial communities and ensure that diversity did not become a source of division.

“Unity must be reflected in our daily interactions, social concern and willingness to help one another. We must embrace the principles of understanding, respecting, accepting and celebrating diversity to build a progressive and harmonious society,” he said.

He was speaking at the 2026 national-level Deepavali celebration at Little India, Brickfields here today, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.