Remember what makes our country unique, Malaysians urged
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s diversity in cultures, religions and ethnicities is a priceless heritage that makes it unique in the eyes of the world, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
“With the theme ‘Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni’, we are reminded that this nation’s strength lies not only in development and progress, but also in the compassion and care we show one another,” the Deputy Prime Minister said in a Facebook post yesterday.
Other national leaders also shared their messages for the 2025 Malaysia Day.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the spirit of defending the nation’s sovereignty and identity must live in every citizen, reminding them that being Malaysian carries a great responsibility.
“Do not only take pride in flying the Jalur Gemilang during National Month. That spirit must live in our hearts throughout the year.
“We must defend our country’s sovereignty, our identity, our nation. That is the message I want to convey,” he said in Penang yesterday.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming described Malaysia Day as a monumental event for the country, which must always be cherished as part of nation building.
“It signifies the importance of Sabah, Sarawak and the peninsula working together as a big and caring family.
“We must have unwavering determination to promote unity and harmony in our diversity,” he added.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the spirit of Malaysia Day should inspire unity as the nation prepares to welcome the world for Visit Malaysia 2026.
The Bintulu MP said Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity, with heritage, arts and culture forming the backbone of its identity and global appeal.
Tiong said the occasion is not just about commemorating history but also about showcasing the nation’s unity and harmony to the world.
Human Resources Minister Steven Sim said the passing of the Gig Workers Bill this year marked a historic step in protecting 1.2 million gig workers nationwide, including in Sabah and Sarawak.
Sim also highlighted his ministry’s success in amending the Sabah and Sarawak Labour Ordinances in 2024, which came into force on 1 May this year.
“This ensured that 2.06 million workers in Sabah and 1.46 million workers in Sarawak now enjoy the same benefits as those in Peninsular Malaysia,” he said.
Sim added that Malaysia Day is a reminder of the unity in diversity that defines the country, as well as the importance of fairness for all Malaysians, particularly workers who drive the nation’s progress.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Law and Institutional Reforms) Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said stressed that Malaysia Day is an opportunity for all to renew their pledge to build a Malaysia that is fair, inclusive and prosperous for all.
“Malaysia Day is a sacred reminder of the day our federation was born – a promise forged on Sept 16, 1963, when Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaya united as one nation. It is not merely a historical milestone but a living covenant of trust, respect and shared destiny,” she said.
Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi described Malaysia Day as a symbol of unity, federalism and togetherness across the nation.
“Let us preserve the peace and unity we enjoy for the well-being of Malaysia as a whole. Happy Malaysia Day to all Malaysians! May this nation always be blessed, progressive and prosperous for future generations,” he said.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said that access to universal healthcare services forms the real foundation of unity.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail reminded that Malaysia was born out of a pledge to remain united in diversity.
Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Chang Lih Kang underlined that harmony and solidarity are the country’s greatest strengths in facing global challenges.
Deputy Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said that Sept 16 was more than just a date on the calendar, but a day to reflect on the nation’s journey of courage, diversity and unity.
“Malaysia Day is a reflection of our spirit that never gives up, our determination that always believes in hope, and our unity that remains strong despite trials and attempts to divide us,” said Ramanan.
