Starting Point
The Jabatan Perpaduan Negeri Sarawak (JPNIN) was established in 1974 in response to the 13 May 1969 racial riots, with the primary aim of fostering national unity. Its key objectives are: (1) promoting national integration and unity among Malaysia’s diverse ethnic communities; (2) strengthening societal cohesion through community engagement and mutual understanding; and (3) advancing the principles of the Rukun Negara as the foundation for national harmony.
JPNIN plays a significant role in mediating conflicts related to gender-based violence (GBV) while promoting societal unity. The department facilitates discussions aimed at resolving racial and ethnic tensions within communities. In addition, JPNIN collaborates with community organisations to provide support for GBV survivors, thereby contributing to the creation of safer environments for women and families. Although addressing GBV is not its primary mandate, JPNIN’s work in promoting understanding and preventing societal conflicts indirectly mitigates the vulnerabilities that exacerbate such violence.
As an advocate for inclusivity and national unity, JPNIN contributes to initiatives such as the National Unity Blueprint (2021–2030), which emphasises inclusive practices and societal harmony. By addressing underlying social inequalities, these efforts support the prevention of GBV.
JPNIN engages closely with Malaysia’s diverse ethnic communities, with a particular focus on fostering understanding in multicultural settings. It also works with local community leaders and members through programmes such as neighbourhood safety patrols and educational initiatives focused on unity.
Peace Journey
To achieve its objectives, JPNIN Sarawak has implemented several notable initiatives. First, it has launched community-based programmes, such as: (1) the Rukun Tetangga initiative, which encourages local communities to actively engage in promoting neighbourhood harmony; and (2) regular cultural exchange and dialogue events aimed at fostering inter-ethnic understanding.
Second, JPNIN contributes to policy development by playing a role in the creation of the National Unity Policy and the National Unity Blueprint (2021–2030), which outline strategies for cultivating a harmonious society.
Third, JPNIN supports the Kelab Rukun Negara (KRN), a network of clubs dedicated to celebrating Malaysia’s diverse cultures, thereby promoting mutual respect and appreciation among ethnic groups.
Lastly, JPNIN has established Tabika Perpaduan (TP), early childhood education centres that emphasise unity and multicultural understanding. These centres aim to nurture harmonious relationships from an early age, laying the foundation for long-term social cohesion.
Success Stories
Over the years, JPNIN has enhanced the effectiveness of its Rukun Tetangga and community-based programmes in Sarawak, despite operating within a limited budget. Initiatives such as the Rukun Tetangga (Neighbourhood Watch) have provided valuable opportunities for increased female participation, fostering greater inclusivity and representation. Additionally, these programmes have encouraged greater understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds, thereby reducing ethnic conflict.
It is worth noting that Sarawak is home to 76 registered ethnic groups, making the task of maintaining stability, peace, and harmony particularly complex. Nevertheless, a 2024 study on social cohesion in Sarawak found that the state ranks highly in terms of societal cohesion, reflecting the success of JPNIN’s initiatives in promoting unity and understanding.