BUTTERWORTH: The country’s national unity and harmony is like a human relationship which is "full of ups and downs."

Gerakan acting president Tan Sri Dr Koh Tsu Koon said that what mattered most was that all Malaysians must continue to do their best and work together.

He, however, noted that racial issues seemed a lot more "hot" over the past two years but added that this was not an indication that the nation’s unity is on the decline."

"Compared to the 1970s and 1980s when racial sentiments ran very high and almost lead to actual conflict, the situation today, though challenging, had seen some moderation.

"But compared to 2003 to 2005, it seemed to be more 'hot' over the past two years.

"There is greater 'heat' being generated now perhaps due to certain events over the last one-and-a-half years and also because of a lot of open criticisms and the Prime Minister’s open approach," Dr Koh said after Gerakan’s Penang Teh Tarik Forum here on Friday night.

He stressed that the people had to handle the "heat" in a matured and tolerant way.

The forum is a regular session for Gerakan leaders and members to exchange ideas on issues concerning the party and nation.