KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 15 — All Malaysians must continue to foster inter-racial harmony, integration and unity which are vital ingredients for the success of our multi-racial Malaysia as the nation commemorates the 50^th anniversary of the formation of Malaysia or Malaysia Day tomorrow.

1Malaysia Foundation Trustee Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye in a statement today said

Malaysia Day celebrations should be a unifying force to bring people of diverse races together for a common goal and for the success of the country.

“It is occasions such as the Malaysia Day celebrations that enable Malaysians to rekindle their patriotic spirit which is most crucial in the building of unity in a multi-racial nation like ours,” he added. 

Lee said the Rukunegara is the guide for nation-building and should be respected by all.

“It is a shared vision for national unity. Its principles should always be upheld and practiced for we must never take for granted the stability, peace and harmony we have attained so far,” he said.

Lee added that the process of establishing a united Malaysian nation is a continuous one, and what has been achieved so far must be nurtured and reinforced.

“Unity is a priceless gift and a symbol of our humanity. It is the foundation upon which we build relationships, families, communities and a nation. It is the bond that seals our nationhood.

“Unity must first start with the individual. If there is unity in a person’s thoughts, emotions and actions it will be reflected in how they treat others,” he said.

Lee added Malaysians of different ethnic origin must always be conscious of the need to have mutual respect for one another. – Bernama