KOTA KINABALU: The Kembara Merdeka convoy across Sabah not only carried a message of patriotism but also spread useful information on matters such as crime prevention to rural folk as it hit its last stops in interior Nabawan.
The event involving youths, state agencies and villagers among others at the Pagalungan Open Hall on Monday (Sept 14) was a great platform to bring communities together, Henry Gurney school Keningau director Sirajuddin Abdul Majid said.
He said it allows the spirit of patriotism to thrive while instilling discipline among youths and spreading positive messages.
"It is also a way for us to encourage youths and the local community to focus on education, upskilling and instilling good habits in their daily lives," he said.
Sirajuddin said that in this digital day and age, influence from social media and peers plays a huge role in shaping a person’s thinking, actions and character.
"If (youths) are not guided well, these influences will lead to social ills and other negativities such as sexual crimes, bullying and gangsterism," he said in reminding the community to work together to create a future generation that can help build a nation.
"That is why education, guidance, advocacy and community involvement can help shape youths make the right choices and refrain from getting involved in social ills and crime."
The nationwide Kembara Merdeka programme, which started on Aug 1, officially came to a close at the end of last month but related activities continue to be held in various towns.
