Chow (on stage, second from left) launching the state-level National Month and Jalur Gemilang waving campaign at Straits Quay in Tanjung Tokong, Penang. – ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
THE Penang government is hoping its month-long National Day campaign will unite the people in the face of challenges after Covid-19.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said he was hoping that federal agencies as well as various departments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and community leaders would bring the celebration to the people on the ground.
“I hope all federal agencies will spread this celebration to departments, NGOs and community leaders to reach out to the people.
“In the era of moving towards Covid-19 endemic phase, there is need to foster unity among the people to overcome challenges ranging from economic, labour, social, religious and rising cost of living through this campaign,” he said after launching the state-level National Month and Jalur Gemilang waving campaign in Straits Quay.
The event saw hundreds of people from various government agencies gathered to celebrate and wave mini Jalur Gemilang flags in front of a stage.
Chow said over 1,000 flags were handed out to representatives and 23 agencies at the event.
Earlier in his speech, he urged the people to instil love for state and country, and embrace the freedom and diversity around.
“After two years of not being able to celebrate the National Month due to Covid-19, we now have the ‘freedom’ to do so this year.
“In line with the state’s LovePenang campaign that was launched, this National Month is among platforms to realise the mission and objective of this campaign.
“The National Month plays an important role to convey clear messages and instil the spirit of patriotism among us.
“Regardless of where we are, the pride of waving the national flag should be practised.
“Jalur Gemilang is symbol of our country to raise patriotism spirit among the people,” he said.
Also present were state exco members and head of various government and uniformed agencies.
A convoy of superbikers and cars carrying the Jalur Gemilang were flagged off.
They were joined by food delivery riders who were hailed as part of frontliners when they worked tirelessly to deliver essentials like food for the people during the pandemic.
