KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 — The coming Merdeka celebrations should serve as a unifying force to bring people of diverse races together for a common goal, and reinforce the foundation for a united Malaysian nation, said 1 Malaysia Foundation Trustee Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said the celebrations should also be used by Malaysians to rekindle the patriotic spirit and strengthen their resolve to stand united to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“The Lahad Datu (Sabah) incident early this year has clearly shown what could happen to our nation if there is no sense of patriotism, particularly involving security personnel entrusted to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“With this in view, it is only appropriate all Malaysians, irrespective of political affiliation, put aside their political differences, and focus on activities to help unite the people,” he said in a statement here today.
He said the private sector, non-governmental organisations, voluntary bodies, youth and religious organisation can also help to organise events which contribute to unity building.
However, Lim said, the unity building events should not only be carried out during Merdeka celebrations, but be an on-going project, adding that the principles contained in the ‘Rukun Negara’ had brought Malaysia together and become the guide for the country’s nation-building. — Bernama
