Ismail Sabri: Nation must come together to defeat Covid-19 and focus on economic recovery

PETALING JAYA: There must be resolved determination by the entire Malaysian Family to recover the nation’s economy and win the fight against Covid-19, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.

"On this sacred day, let us all vow together to recover the nation which was built upon irrespective of religion, race or ethnicity," Ismail Sabri said in his National Day address to the nation in conjunction with the 64th National Day celebration on Tuesday (Aug 31).

He said that all Malaysians must continue to champion the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic as the nation’s main enemy.

He noted that the nation was currently facing challenges brought about by the pandemic which had threatened political stability not only here, but also the rest of the world.

"What we are facing today has never been faced by any previous leader or government before this.

"We are faced with several simultaneous challenges all at once, namely a pandemic and an economic downturn," he said.

The Prime Minister noted that only through cooperation from all parties and increased vaccination, will the fight against Covid-19 be won.

He added that this was imperative to revive the economy while improving the welfare of the rakyat while increasing investor confidence.

"In light of this, I call on the Malaysian Family to get vaccinated as soon as possible to help the nation recover.

"Vaccines have proven to have a positive impact on efforts to combat the pandemic.

"Rest assured that based on data and facts, it is only through complete cooperation from all quarters, will the war against Covid-19 end with victory," he added.

He noted that success in defeating the pandemic would open the road to the nation’s economic recovery under the new normal.

The Prime Minister also touched on the nation’s history, particularly the struggles and sacrifices made by past multiracial leaders and those who died defending the country.

“I have to mention a few historical facts because a nation that wants to rise from any crisis, must know its history.

"Individuals who know history will have a strong identity and mutual respect.

“More importantly, they will have a focused mind in overcoming whatever challenges they may face," he said.

He said that it was this spirit of togetherness that Malaysians should inherit to revive and build the nation.

The Prime Minister expressed hope that through cooperation of all Malaysians, this will be the last year that the national day celebrations are held under Covid-19 conditions.