Stepping up in the spirit of patriotism
AirAsia’s CEO and staff members eager to take part in unity walk
SEPANG: Watching the National Day celebrations at Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur while growing up as a teenager left an indelible mark on Air Asia Berhad deputy group chief executive officer Tharumalingam Kanagalingam.
Fondly known as Bo Lingam to his friends and people in the corporate world, the 53-year-old recalled how he would push through an eager crowd of thousands for the best view to watch the march past at the yearly Merdeka parade.
“Warm hearts and high spirits prevailed amidst a sea of mini Malaysian flags waved with gusto. I was thrilled watching the uniformed bodies impressive sense of precision as they marched in unison,” he said.
Bo added that the parade brought all Malaysians of different backgrounds together and it was an expression of national unity, love of country, tolerance and celebration of our Malaysian mix of cultures.
“Some friends chose to be at home and watch the parade on television but I was adventurous in nature,” he said.
I made the trips to Dataran Merdeka, as it ignited a spirit of love for all Malaysians. I am a people person who is curious about what is outside.”
Bo remembered singing the Negaraku, together with thousands of other Malaysians, young and old, at the parade.
“I felt patriotic even if it was for a half-day parade. But, today, I see it as love for others
and we must be steadfast in caring for all Malaysians,” he said, adding that this year he wanted to be part of the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk.
Bo said this year’s National Day, would be special for all under a new government.
“AirAsia’s staff members are participating
in the #AnakAnakMalaysia walk to celebrate the spirit of patriotism among Malaysians and foster unity.
“People’s expression of their patriotic spirit through #AnakAnakMalaysia is crucial and it must soar,” he said.
The 3.8km #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk will be flagged off at 6.30am on Sept 2 at the Eco Ardence Sales Gallery, Persiaran Setia Alam, Setia Alam, Shah Alam.
The walk, which drew about 6,000 participants last year, is to promote unity, harmony and tolerance.
The registration fee for the #AnakAnakMalaysia Walk is RM40 (adult), RM20 (child) and RM100 (family package two adults, two children).
#AnakAnakMalaysia Walk is a collaboration between Malaysia’s well-known property developer Eco World Development Group Bhd and Star Media Group. Other sponsors for the event include Panasonic (Silver Sponsor) and DRB-Hicom (Car Sponsor).
For details, go to https://sites.thestar.com. my/aamwalk/.