Mersing district came alive with patriotic fervour as local organisations and community members united to take part in National Month celebrations.
Events included a kayak expedition, a hike up a mountain, Jalur Gemilang convoy and boat patrols in Mersing waters.
“Team Eksplorasi Kayak Merdeka” was a symbolic kayak expedition carrying the Jalur Gemilang, said Mersing district officer Jamil Hasni Abdullah.
“The team consisted of 16 participants from various local groups, including Malaysia Rescue Agency (MRA) Johor Mersing branch, Mersing district kayak athletes and Kelab Sastri Johor,” Jamil said.
“The team paddled 7km from Pantai Mawar to Pantai Teluk Gorek, which is the meeting point for our launch.”
At the same time, “Ekspedisi Arong Merdeka 67” took off towards the peak of Gunung Arong, which is about 240m above sea level.
Jamil said the hike started at 7.45am and the team arrived at the top about an hour later.
“The expedition, which involved 100 participants from various government agencies, was a test of endurance and strength, symbolising the determination of Malaysians in their pursuit of progress and unity.
“Upon reaching the summit, the participants, led by myself and Mersing OCPD Supt Abdul Razak Abdullah Sani, hoisted 67 Jalur Gemilang, commemorating the 67 years of Malaysia’s independence.”
On the distribution of Malaysian flags as part of the “Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang” 2024, he said, “We aimed to ignite patriotic spirit among residents.
“The convoy made stops at several key locations, including Pantai Teluk Gorek, Penyabong and Mersing Harbour Centre, culminating at the Mersing District Office.”
Jamil said “Ops Bot Selamat Kibar Jalur Gemilang” involved local authorities conducting comprehensive patrols and drug prevention operations on tourist boats.
“This initiative, which included safety briefings for boat operators, aimed to safeguard the district’s maritime areas, ensuring they remain secure and drug-free.”
Supt Abdul Razak said the event highlighted the district’s commitment to the spirit of Merdeka through community engagement, physical endurance and environmental awareness.
“The objectives of the programme were clear – to enliven National Month celebrations, amplify the ‘Kibar Jalur Gemilang’ campaign, promote a healthy lifestyle and showcase Gunung Arong as a sustainable tourism destination in Mersing.”
