1MALAYSIA HOMESTAY CONCEPT ENHANCES UNITY - DEVAMANY

TEMERLOH (Malaysia), July 11 (Bernama) -- A homestay programme that explores
the concept of multiracial identity of the country could enhance unity among
races, said Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister's Department S.K Devamany.

He said the 1Malaysia homestay programme would focus on staying with people
of different races and religions.

"For example, the Chinese and Indians can stay with Malay families and
vice-versa," he told reporters after launching the 1Malaysia Goodwill Village
Homestay Project in a village here Friday.

Eighty Indian participants from Sungai Siput, Perak are staying with adopted
Malay families in the village during the programme.

"The 1Malaysia homestay programme truly reflects the 1Malaysia concept
because the participants are not only staying with Malay families but will also
be also taking part in community activities with village folks," he said.

Devamany said the homestay programme would relive the past glory of goodwill
among races in the country.

"Last week about 80 Chinese participants from Sungai Siput lived with Malay
adopted families here," he said.

Devamany said the programme could be expanded with Chinese and Indian
families playing host but a study would be carried out first on religious
tolerance, cultural differences and racial sensitivity.
-- BERNAMA