Look beyond race and religion, says veteran songbird

AnakanakMalaysia

MALACCA: Three decades ago, songbird Francissca Peter (pic) was already spreading her message about love for the country.

In fact, she can claim that she has been a long-time advocate of loyalty and patriotism each time schoolchildren sing Setia, her signature tune in the 1980s.

At one time, the song was almost like a second anthem for many students, who would sing it at school assemblies while RTM and radio stations would feature it in their broadcasts.

Looking back, Fran, as she is fondly called, said she was honoured to be picked by then-information minister, the late Tan Sri Mohamed Rahmat, to record the song.

“The lyrics are meaningful as it is about love and loyalty to the nation, irrespective of race, religion or creed.

“It saddens me when I hear of some people who try to create disharmony among us by playing on racial sentiments,” she said in an interview yesterday.

Fran said Malaysians should look beyond race and religion to bring the nation forward, adding that people should set a good example for the younger generation.

“When we go abroad, people recognise us as Malaysians, not as Indians, Chinese or Malays. Even our dishes are known as Malaysian food.

“We may be rojak (mixed) in our culture and practices, but that is the beauty of Malaysia.

“Tunku Abdul Rahman fought for our independence from the British in 1957.

“Let’s celebrate unity and condemn those who try to promote racism, bigotry and disharmony,” she said.

Fran, who is of Ceylonese and Chinese parentage, said her Malaysia Day wish was to see equality, whether in the workforce, education, healthcare or administration.

“We must also not overlook ethnic and minority groups because they are part of our rich multiracial and multicultural society.

“We must help lift them up through better education and provide them more economic opportunities,” she said.

She also said that English language was a vital tool to further help Malaysians stand out locally and internationally.

Fran praised The Star for its #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign, noting that it was an excellent way to show solidarity and patriotism.

“This is my kampung, this is my Malaysia.

“Nobody should belittle another community. Malaysia belongs to every Malaysian,” she said.