KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia prepares to celebrate its 68th National Day on Sunday (Aug 31), Cabinet members shared their heartfelt greetings to all Malaysians via social media on Saturday (Aug 30), expressing their hopes that this year's celebrations will further strengthen the nation's unity and sense of togetherness.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad said independence is not just freedom from colonialism, but the freedom to build a fair, united, and compassionate nation rooted in unity.
"Unity is our strongest defence. Without it, no nation can endure and progress," he said in a Facebook post.
Dzulkefly added that this year's National Day theme, "Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni," calls on all Malaysians to reject prejudice, foster tolerance, and promote mutual care.
As the minister responsible for the nation's health, he also said independence means freedom from disease, fear of inaccessible healthcare, stigma and the health disparities that hinder individual potential.
"We can take pride in physical and technological progress, but the true value of an independent country is when its people are healthy, prosperous and live with dignity," he said.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the people are actually the pillars of the nation's strength.
"Without the contributions of the people, whether big or small, the struggle for independence and the development of Malaysia today would not have become a reality," he said in a Facebook post.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, following the Prime Minister's National Day address, said the independence enjoyed today is the result of the sacrifices and struggles of many.
"As emphasised by the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim), efforts to divide the races must be firmly opposed. To achieve national prosperity and well-being, the people must cultivate unity and love for the country," he said.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stressed the need to protect independence and maintain peace, assuring the ministry's commitment to safeguarding the safety of the people.
Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said independence means not only freedom from colonial rule but also from poverty.
"Zakat and wakaf are crucial tools in building a Madani social network so that no one is left behind," he said.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani said that National Day is not just a celebration but a symbol of the sacrifices, struggles and wisdom of past leaders and freedom fighters.
"Let us highlight our responsibility as citizens to defend this independence by strengthening unity and maintaining peace for the nation," he urged. - Bernama
