KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians are urged to demonstrate their patriotism not only during National Month but throughout the year by proudly flying the Jalur Gemilang as a symbol of national identity and unity.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the spirit of Malaysia should not fade once National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations conclude, but should continue to burn brightly in the hearts of all citizens.
“We should not confine the flying of the Jalur Gemilang to the period between National Day and Malaysia Day. Let us seize this opportunity to ignite the spirit of nationhood in our beloved Malaysia.
“Let us uphold the Jalur Gemilang with pride, and may this patriotic spirit endure not just in August and September, but throughout the year — not merely on buildings or vehicles, but most importantly, in the hearts and minds of Malaysians,” he said during a live interview on Selamat Pagi Malaysia, broadcast on RTM’s TV1.
Also present was Nehchal C. Khanna, chief executive officer of QSR Brands (M) Holdings Berhad.
He said that the display of the national flag across premises, buildings, and vehicles had not only fostered patriotic sentiment among Malaysians but also drawn admiration from foreign tourists.
“Visitors, especially those who came during National Month, often remark that they have never seen a country where the national flag is flown with such pride on so many buildings,” he said.
Regarding the upcoming Malaysia Day celebration, Fahmi said that this year’s event would retain the symbolic signing of the Malaysia Day Book, a commemorative document incorporating elements from all Malaysian states, representing the unity that had existed since 1963.
The signing ceremony will take place on the evening of Sept 16 at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena in Penang, which has been selected, for the first time, as the national-level host for Malaysia Day.
“While National Day typically showcases our military assets and agency preparedness, Malaysia Day highlights the ceremonial signing of the Malaysia Day Book by the Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, the Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and the Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim,” he said.
Fahmi said that the book was unique, featuring elements from each state and serving as a record of yearly achievements, reinforcing the significance of Malaysia Day.
Adding to this year’s celebrations, he announced that the National Unity Ministry would organise a special tribute in Kepala Batas on Sept 16 to honour the legacy of Malaysia’s fifth Prime Minister, the late Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.
“This is one of several events under the broader Malaysia Day programme. There will also be side events such as the Rahmah Sales, government agency booths, and the Madani Rakyat programme, where the public can access services including traffic summons payments,” he said.
Another highlight will be the Bersama Malaysiaku competition, launched earlier by the Prime Minister’s Department, with winners celebrated on Malaysia Day and prizes awarded in recognition of their patriotic contributions.
“I will be heading to Penang tomorrow to review preparations and observe the final rehearsals. I am confident this year’s celebration will be just as grand, vibrant, and colourful, featuring cultural performances and guest artistes,” he said.
Meanwhile, Nehchal announced QSR Brands’ contribution of RM2.8 million on behalf of KFC, Pizza Hut, and Life Sources to support and enhance the Malaysia Day celebration, highlighting the company’s commitment to patriotism and community solidarity.
“This contribution is very meaningful for us. It reflects the values we uphold at QSR Brands — giving back to the community, particularly the underprivileged. Nation-building is central to our mission.
“Our programmes, such as Sehati and the KFC Scholarship initiative, are ways in which we reinvest in society. Events like these provide opportunities for meaningful collaboration with the government and the people, and are greatly appreciated,” he added. – BERNAMA
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
