‘Emulate olympic team’s success to help country thrive’

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysians should take inspiration from the Olympic team’s success where grit and determination can ensure the continued development, progress and prosperity of the nation, says Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

“We can each in our own way contribute to make Malaysia thrive,” said the MCA president.

“Our individual achievements put together collectively form the foundation of the continued development of our beloved tanah air,” he said in his Merdeka Day message.

Liow said Malaysia had come a long way and made tremendous progress, growing from strength to strength as a multicultural and multiracial nation.

Through it all, he said, the founding fathers’ spirit of resilience, courage and unity had underscored the achievements and helped the country to stay the course in the face of challenges.

“The same drive for success was evident in our Olympic athletes as they demonstrated sheer determination and grit in the sporting arena.

“Similarly, our unity was clear when we as a nation rallied behind them to cheer them on with one voice.

“This was truly in keeping with the theme for this year’s Merdeka, Sehati Sejiwa and testament to the strength of the ties between every Malaysian citizen,” he said.

Liow said that diversity remained Malaysia’s greatest strength, more so when everyone come together over a common bond.

“Let us all seek to embrace the core values of Merdeka and Malaysia as we mark this important day. Moderation, tolerance, acceptance are the foundation of our sikap bertolak-ansur, both now and in the years to come,” he said.

MIC president Datuk Seri Dr S. Subramaniam said the theme of this year’s National Day celebration should evoke feelings of love for fellow Malaysians and the country.

There should also be a sense of gratitude and for the people to realise the true meaning of independence, he said.

“If we are not careful and fight among ourselves, the prosperity and freedom enjoyed today will certainly not last long,” he said in his message.

He urged the younger generation to play their role as future leaders in ensuring that the people continue to live in harmony and maintain the legacy of Malaysia’s independence.

“I hope that this year’s celebration can be appreciated by people of all ages, races, and different backgrounds,” Bernama quoted him as saying.

Malaysian Associated Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (MAICCI) president Tan Sri K. Kenneth Eswaran said Malaysians must appreciate the struggles of past leaders and those who fought hard for independence.

He paid tribute to the ancestors who battled for unity, making diversity the strength of the nation.

“Unity will be the ultimate challenge and the current generation must not forget the values and the foundation of independence.

“We should not be divided via social stratification and should work as one solid entity,” he said in his statement.