KUALA LUMPUR: The annual celebration of Malaysians born on Aug 31 and Sept 16 should be continued and strengthened as a platform for cultivating patriotism and national identity, says Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid.
The National Unity Ministry secretary-general said the Anak Merdeka Malaysia programme was not merely intended to celebrate those sharing their birthdays with National Day and Malaysia Day.
“It also serves as a platform to connect society with the country’s history and identity,” she said at the Anak Merdeka Malaysia 2026 celebration at the Tun Hussein Onn Memorial here on Monday (Aug 31).
Haslina said those born on the two historic dates held a special place in the country’s national celebrations.
Addressing the children present, she said: “You are the future of Malaysia. May you continue to grow and shine together.”
She said the celebration, one of the National Archives of Malaysia’s signature programmes, was held annually to honour Malaysians born on Aug 31 and Sept 16.
Haslina also urged Malaysians to remember that the country’s independence was secured through negotiations and consensus among its former leaders, without bloodshed.
She said the late Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj had led negotiations with the British until the country achieved independence on Aug 31, 1957.
“His leadership was founded on consultation, ensuring that the voices of the various communities were heard and respected.
“This is the spirit that we must continue to embrace and inherit so that the independence we achieved remains the foundation of the country’s peace, prosperity and unity.
“The country’s progress and development must translate into wellbeing that can be felt and enjoyed by all, regardless of race, religion, region or background,” she said.
She added that the government, through the National Unity Ministry, remained committed to strengthening social integration, patriotism and inclusivity.
“With togetherness, mutual respect and a willingness to accept our differences, we can ensure that the wellbeing enjoyed today is preserved for future generations,” she said.
