PETALING JAYA: Preserving unity and walking together as one nation were the calls of Sarawakian leaders in conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebrations.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said Malaysia Day is a profound reminder of our unity in diversity.
“It marks the courage of our forefathers in forming this nation and calls on us to preserve harmony by avoiding division.
“For me, Malaysia Day is about strengthening the bonds that unite us, regardless of the race, religion or region.
“It is a day to embrace the spirit of ‘segulai sejalai’ or walking together as one,” he said when contacted.
Fadillah called on the rakyat to renew their determination to build a fair, inclusive and prosperous Malaysia for every citizen.
To make Malaysia Day more meaningful, Fadillah said it should be celebrated not just as a holiday but as a living reflection of our unity.
“We should engage the younger generation in understanding our history, values, and shared destiny, while bringing celebrations to every corner of the country so that no Malaysian feels left behind,” he added.
He said it is also crucial that Malaysians walk together as one while respecting each other’s differences and rejecting disunity.
“Only then will Malaysia Day truly inspire us to walk hand in hand towards a stronger, united and brighter future,” he said.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said while honour is given to the memory of former statesmen such as Tunku Abdul Rahman, Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Tun VT Sambanthan, Tun Abdul Razak Hussein, Tun Mustapha Harun, Tun Fuad Stephens and Tun Abdul Rahman Ya’kub in shaping the nation, it was also ordinary Malaysians who helped in the founding of Malaysia.
“The nation’s formation was also the result of the sacrifices and courage of ordinary Malaysians.
“They were the heartbeat of the struggle, devoting their energy, time and lives to ensure the country could stand proudly as an independent nation,” Aaron said.
He stressed that the nation’s unique strength lies in the diversity of races, religions, cultures and ethnicities, which is the country’s most valuable asset.
“This diversity is not a dividing factor but rather a bridge of unity that strengthens Malaysia’s identity as a harmonious, multicultural nation,” he added.
He urged the rakyat to be mindful of new challenges as a result of the digital age, which could threaten the foundation of unity.
“Hatred being sown, subtle polarisation and slander circulating on social media often act as poison, straining ties between races and religions.
“All this stems from the actions of a few who misuse technology to spread harm rather than good,” Aaron added.
Women, Family and Community Development Minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said Malaysia Day reminds her of joyous occasions where Malaysians come together to celebrate.
“It reminds me of very colourful events in our country. We carry lanterns to light the evening.
“People of all races look forward to gathering at the Central Padang (Padang Merdeka) in Kuching to watch the parade and enjoy the festivities,” she said.
Nancy suggested that more events should be organised but in a casual manner where Malaysians of all walks of life would be able to participate in the programmes.
Nancy stressed it must also be remembered on Malaysia Day that both Sarawak and Sabah helped form Malaysia.
“We did not join Malaysia. We helped form Malaysia.
“Indeed, we were instrumental in the formation of Malaysia,” she said.
