KOTA KINABALU: The spirit of independence is being felt in the Tawau district with maritime enforcement officials holding a "Semarak Merdeka" programme with locals over the weekend.
The programme at Felda Gugusan Umas on Saturday (Aug 20) saw more than a hundred people taking part.
Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Tawau zone director Shahrizan Raman said the programme aimed to ignite the spirit of patriotism among the communities as the nation celebrates its 65th National Day on Aug 31.
He said they had a Merdeka Convoy, community clean-up at the Tabika Kemas Felda Umas and the handing over of the Jalur Gemilang during the programme.
“We also launched the 'Fly the Jalur Gemilang' campaign and took part in recreational activities with the locals,” he said.
Shahrizan said Felda folk including villagers, kindergarten pupils and fishermen were invited to be part of the event to also help them learn more about the role of the MMEA.
“MMEA officials are tasked with protecting the coastal areas in Sabah, including the interior,” he said.
“Such programmes help foster relations between maritime officials and locals while encouraging unity within the multi-ethnic community,” he added.
Shahrizan thanked the people, especially Felda Gugusan Umas village chief Otoh Kanus and Felda Umas kindergarten supervisor Samsuria Nanang, for their support throughout the programme.
