Analysts say a nation’s unity and social stability are strategic assets for weathering global economic turmoil and geopolitical pressures, not just moral ideals
KUALA LUMPUR: A nation’s strength during global crises hinges not just on economic policy but on the unity of its people, according to analysts.
National Unity Advisory Council member Datuk Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi said a united populace is more resilient to geopolitical pressure and inflation.
“In the Malaysian context, the unity of the people is a core element of national security,” he told Bernama.
He stated that effectively managing public trust and policy communication is as vital as economic measures during turmoil.
Awang Azman warned that panic or blame among the public amplifies a crisis’s cost, making unity a form of strategic capital.
He also emphasised the need for geopolitical literacy so Malaysians understand how foreign conflicts affect living costs.
The government must explain that external conflicts directly impact daily expenses, not just international news.
“This means that if the gap between official data and the people’s life experiences is not in line, anxiety would be more easily exploited,” he said.
From a socio-political view, he cautioned that external conflicts can trigger emotional polarisation through divisive narratives.
In a plural society, the real threat includes “emotional inflation” where international issues become domestic hostilities.
Malaysia must distinguish between human solidarity and political hatred that damages national harmony, he added.
Universiti Sains Malaysia lecturer Prof Datuk Dr P. Sivamurugan said social stability is critical in managing global economic crises.
He noted that nations with high trust and social cohesion historically recover faster from financial shocks.
The COVID-19 pandemic proved high public trust in government could control panic and ensure compliance with rules.
“Geopolitics may occur beyond borders, but its effects reach people’s dinner tables,” Sivamurugan said.
He stressed that in a crisis, the economy is not just numbers but trust born from unity.
Social stability acts as an economic “shock absorber” during turbulent times, according to the analyst.
Managing public perception through strategic communication is key to preventing panic, he added.
A prompt response to misinformation and active public engagement are essential to maintaining confidence.
“The information gap will be filled by fear, and fear is often more dangerous than the crisis itself,” he said.
To address the global energy crisis, the government has conducted regular live briefings with ministers.
