A big ‘aye’ for moderation

KUALA LUMPUR: The Anak-Anak Malaysia Walk 2016, which drew a crowd of about 6,000 people, was a reflection of how Malaysians support moderation and harmony, said Star Media Group chairman Datuk Fu Ah Kiow.

“It is a run-up to our National Day celebration and these participants are here to support moderation, harmony and tolerance,” he said.

He told a press conference after the walk yesterday he was touched by the overwhelming response.

This is the second year that Star Media Group and EcoWorld Deve­lopment Group Berhad got together for the #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign.

Last year’s campaign saw Malay­sians wearing wristbands and expressing their patriotism as well as thoughts on what it meant to be Malaysians.

Star Media Group managing director and chief executive officer Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai said it was an “emotional morning” for him to witness the show of unity.

“When the crowd sang Negaraku at the flag-off, I could feel the goosebumps. It was sung with gusto and in true Malaysian spirit,” he said.

EcoWorld chairman Tan Sri Liew Kee Sin said his company was happy to be a co-organiser, adding that it was his dream that all races live in peace and harmony, regardless of religion or skin colour.

CIMB Group chairman Datuk Seri Nazir Razak said he enjoyed the event and was grateful to be part of it along with his children.

“Even though it is not an overtly nationalistic event, it encouraged unity and is good for the national spirit,” he said.

Proton CEO Datuk Ahmad Fuaad Mohd Kenali said the walk with his family was a reminder that the nation needed to stay united and peaceful as it was the next generation’s inheritance.

He applauded the initiative and called on more individuals and corporations to support future walks.

YTL Corporation Berhad executive director Datuk Yeoh Soo Keng said the participants who came from various backgrounds reflected the diversity of Malaysia’s multi-racial society.

“I think it is a brilliant platform to show Malaysians can walk in harmony with one voice and mind. We should always say yes to harmony, moderation and unity,” she said.

The 3.4km walk started at the junction of Jalan Imbi and Jalan Pudu at the site of the former Pudu Jail. It was flagged off by Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Mhd Amin Nordin Abd Aziz.

Other sponsors for the event include Car Sponsor: Proton, Gold Sponsor: Panasonic and Silver Sponsors: Tenaga Nasional and YES.