Defense Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein speaking to the media. - Bernamapic
KUALA LUMPUR: A proposal will be made that the entire nation observes "a moment of silence" when the remains of Malaysian passengers killed aboard Malaysian Airlines (MAS) flight MH17 returns, said Defense Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Tun Hussein.
He said the initial proposal of the idea had received positive feedback from several quarters and would be tabled before the Cabinet this Wednesday.
"This can be a very touching gesture that comes from the heart where the entire can participate in when the remains are brought home to the country," he told reporters after officiating the Umno Wanita Kepong division meeting here on Sunday.
He added that the moment of silence can be longer for the usual minute of silence held as a ceremonial show of respect.
"Such an idea is not impossible to achieve," he said, adding that the event could help the nation unite as a people irrespective of colour, class or religion.
He added he would discuss the matter with Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai on Monday who is the minister in charge of the last rite ceremony for the national day of mourning.
Hishammuddin also said that the proposal would also be considered by the committee chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin this Thursday following public feedback.
On Aug 1, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak said the Government will declare a day of mourning when the first of the bodies of Malaysian victims in the MH17 tragedy are flown home.
On July 17, MH17, carrying 298 people on board, crashed in eastern Ukraine after it was shot down. Some 43 people on the flight, from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur, were Malaysians.
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