We cannot be mere passengers in nation-building, says Salleh

PUTRAJAYA: The scorching heat did not stop Malaysians from coming out in droves to take part in the launch of the Ekspresi Negaraku event at Dataran Putrajaya yesterday.

More than 4,000 people arrived from as early as 6am, including those participating in the Negaraku Flag Run, held in conjunction with the event.

Several hours later, more people began making their way to the venue, with many decked in red, white, blue and yellow — the colours of the Jalur Gemilang.

Hundreds then took part in Senamrobik Negaraku, where the young and old alike grooved to uptempo music blasting from the speakers, with instructors cheering them on.

Soon after, some 600 youth marched into the square, bearing placards listing the tenets enshrined under the Rukunegara.

The Ekspresi Negaraku initiative is a first-of-its-kind platform, spearheaded by the people to demonstrate their love for the country.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Salleh Said Keruak said despite coming from different walks of life, it was important for Malaysians to remain united for the sake of the country’s stability.

“Sometimes, while we are busy going about our daily lives, we forget how important it is to be patriotic.

“Even though we have different political beliefs, and are of different races and religions, Malaysia is ours.

“We must be united to ensure the stability of our nation and we must always be in harmony.”

Salleh said he was proud to see so many young Malaysians here.

“This country is for them. The government can ensure that the infrastructure is there and the country is developed as planned. But, at the end of the day, it is up to us to participate (in nationbuilding).

“We cannot just be passengers in building the nation. We must take part in this process.”

Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dr Ali Hamsa said the initiative would inculcate the spirit of patriotism in the people.

“We don’t have to wait for Merdeka Day to be patriotic. It should be instilled in all of us wherever we are.

“Civil servants are also the main pillars of loyalty to the government. They work and serve the people, and give their best for Malaysians.”