KUCHING, Sept 14 — Malaysia’s younger generation must understand the country’s history and appreciate the struggles of previous generations in building a peaceful and united nation, while rejecting corruption that could undermine the country’s future.

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said there were three things that could destroy a country, namely communism, communalism and corruption.

He said communism had once posed a major threat to national security, with armed movements, killings and disruptions to public peace capable of undermining Malaysia’s stability.

“Although the threat of communism has been overcome, society must remain vigilant against anything that could undermine unity, including communalism... it can become a threat when someone puts their own race above others to the extent of looking down on or oppressing other races.

“As a leader, I now understand that holding a position is a trust. It is a responsibility and trust given to us to do good, and we must never betray that trust,” he said.

He said this when speaking at the JIWA@Komuniti National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) 2026 programme at Politeknik Kuching here today.

Fahmi said the formation of Malaysia was unique as it was achieved through consensus and negotiations, unlike some countries that had to go through conflict or armed struggles to achieve independence.

“Hence, the younger generation has an important role to play in ensuring that the history and values that shaped the country continue to be preserved so that Malaysia remains peaceful, united and progressive in the future,” he said. — Bernama