‘National Day a time for unity and celebration’
KUALA The people should celebrate National Day in the spirit of unity, setting aside racial and religious differences, said the Communications and Multimedia Minister.
Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak also said the celebration’s theme, Sehati, Sejiwa (One Heart, One Soul), reflected the togetherness of Malaysians, irrespective of politics and ideologies.
“This is a day we must uphold as one that unifies us. We should also be grateful that our country is peaceful.
“We should continue to go forward to build for ourselves a more glorious Malaysia,” he said after watching the full dress rehearsal of the 2016 National Day parade at Dataran Merdeka.
The theme has been retained this year to celebrate the spirit of unity that has long been cherished by Malaysians.
Almost 15,000 people representing government agencies, private sector and security forces, as well as students, took part in the rehearsal.
Replying to a question, Salleh said he was satisfied with the preparations and hoped the participants would maintain “the spirit of working as one team”.
“Such spirit will translate into a great display for the people,” he said. He called on the people to watch the event live tomorrow.
He urged them to come dressed in colourful attire, with the Jalur Gemilang as inspiration. “Show your spirit of patriotism. This is the key to everything,” he said.
Prime Minister's Department senior deputy secretary-general Tan Sri Othman Mahmood said the rehearsal showed that some aspects needed to be improved.
“We have one more day to touch up on any shortcomings so that on Aug 31, we can give our best presentation,” he said.
He reminded all participants to be well rested before the big day. — Bernama