KUCHING: The Ministry of Communications and Digital is contemplating the inclusion of the Keretapi Sarong event as one of the activities during the National Month.
Minister Fahmi Fadzil mentioned that the flash mob activity held in Kuala Lumpur in conjunction with Malaysia Day this year drew over 10,000 participants, inspiring the idea of incorporating it into the National Month Calendar.
“When I saw the enthusiasm towards the event (Keretapi Sarong), it crossed my mind that maybe we can discuss with the organisers regarding its inclusion in the National Month Calendar.
“I also hope that next year we can plan more programmes for the National Month, be it at the community or national level to further instil love for the country,” he said.
He told reporters after attending the 2023 National-level Malaysia Day celebration held at the Stadium Perpaduan here in Petra Jaya last night (Sept 16).
The Keretapi Sarong, introduced by a non-governmental organisation (NGO) in 2012, is an activity where people gather and celebrate Malaysia Day together by using a network of public railway services and travel through a set of selected routes while wearing Sarong (a long piece of thin cloth that is worn wrapped around the waist).
On another note, Fahmi, who is the minister-in-charge of this year’s Malaysia Day celebration, said that he is pleased to see the turnout of over 5,000 people, exceeding the initial target.
“The celebration is very encouraging and exciting with the various performances, including the speeches by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg which were very meaningful,” he said.
Fahmi added that the event serves as the highlight of the National Month, National Day, and Malaysia Day celebrations.
Responding to a question about next year’s celebration, Fahmi mentioned that the hosting of Malaysia Day would rotate among different states.
Sarawak Utility and Telecommunications Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi was responsible for overseeing this year’s celebrations.
