MELAKA: Poetry, patriotic songs and aid for less fortunate volunteers are among the Melaka Tengah People’s Volunteer Corps (Rela) initiatives to mark the 69th National Day celebration while strengthening unity within its multi-ethnic ranks.
Melaka Tengah Rela chief Mahanum Zainal said 27 personnel took part in the district’s "Patriotic Night" programme recently, featuring a Merdeka poetry recital competition and the singing of patriotic songs.
"The programme was organised to instil patriotism among our personnel while allowing them to express their love for the country through poetry and song," she said in an interview on Friday (Aug 28).
Mahanum said Melaka Tengah Rela would hold another programme on Sunday (Aug 30) to encourage the public to fly the Jalur Gemilang.
"Our personnel will travel along routes in the Melaka Tengah, Jasin and Alor Gajah districts to spread the spirit of flying the flag.
"We will also distribute essential supplies to 30 less fortunate Rela personnel as part of the programme," she said.
Mahanum said the district’s strength lay in its personnel, who came from different ethnic, religious and social backgrounds but remained united by a shared responsibility to serve the community.
"Melaka Tengah Rela comprises personnel of various races, religions and backgrounds.
"We remain focused on serving the community regardless of race or religion while promoting mutual respect among our personnel to maintain a harmonious environment," she said.
Mahanum said the district continued to preserve Rela’s identity as a volunteer force through community service initiatives.
"Our personnel participate in gotong-royong activities in residential areas, mosques, other places of worship and cemeteries, as well as welfare visits and community patrols.
"These initiatives reflect our continuing commitment to serving and assisting communities throughout Melaka Tengah," she said.
In conjunction with the National Day celebration, Mahanum urged Melaka Tengah Rela personnel to safeguard the unity and harmony inherited from those who fought for the country’s independence.
"I hope our personnel will continue to promote neighbourliness, tolerance and mutual respect in every community they serve.
"As Rela volunteers, we must uphold the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara as our guiding principles while contributing to the preservation of peace and harmony within the district," she added.
