PETALING JAYA: Leaders from both sides of the political divide urged Malaysians to cherish independence and uphold unity as the nation celebrates its 68th National Day today.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said safeguarding independence required constant vigilance and solidarity.
United front: (From left) Saifuddin Nasution, Fahmi, Mohd Na’im, Dzulkefly and Azalina.
“Independence must be safeguarded. Peace must be defended. The Home Ministry is committed to ensuring the people’s safety is always protected.
“Let us unite wholeheartedly to reject all elements of division. Raise the Jalur Gemilang with pride,” he said in a Facebook post yesterday.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil urged citizens to appreciate the sacrifices that secured the country’s freedom.
“The independence we enjoy today was born of the struggles and sacrifices of many.
“May the spirit of unity and love for our homeland continue to flourish within every citizen, for a more prosperous and peaceful Malaysia,” he said.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar reminded Malaysians that independence extends beyond freedom from colonial rule.
“Independence is not merely freedom from colonisation, but also freedom from the shackles of poverty.
“Zakat and waqaf are important instruments in building a Madani social safety net so that no one is left behind.
“With the spirit of the independence month, let us make the Quran our compass in life, building a Malaysia Madani filled with grace, compassion and brotherhood,” he said.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said good health was a fundamental element of true independence.
“I wish to emphasise that independence also means people being free from the burden of disease, free from the fear of not being able to access treatment, free from stigma, and free from health disparities that hinder personal potential,” he said.
“Health is a right, and well-being is true independence. We may take pride in physical and technological progress, but the real value of a free nation lies in its people being healthy, prosperous and living with dignity.”
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reform) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said underscored the enduring relevance of the Rukun Negara.
“The Rukun Negara is not just a pledge; it is the foundation for Malaysians not only in fostering love and devotion to the nation but also in uniting us as one in building a more harmonious and illustrious future.
“On this 68th National Day, let us embrace its spirit and remain steadfast in defending the Malaysia we love,” she said.
Perikatan Nasional secretary-general Datuk Seri Azmin Ali called on Malaysians to reflect on the sacrifices of their forefathers who fought for independence, adding that Malaysia’s fabric of multiracialism should be upheld through respect for all.
“To ensure a more prosperous and dignified future, all members of our multiracial society must unite under the broad umbrella of our homeland, harnessing the capabilities and potential of our native sons and daughters,” he said.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan said the National Day is a “manifestation of the declaration and noble aspirations of the founding generation of Malaysia”, adding that the date Aug 31, 1957, marks a historic moment that signifies the nation’s liberation from the chains of colonialism.
“Let us all take this moment to reflect on how far we have translated the spirit of independence into every aspect of nationhood, especially for those entrusted with leading the country – from governance to community relations,” he added.
