BY JACQUELINE DAVID
KUCHING: Women, Child and Community Well-being Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah has suggested that an appreciation for the principles of the Rukun Negara be nurtured from preschool level.
It is a good step to be implemented, she said at the closing of ‘Jelajah Belia Rukun Negara’ programme here today (Oct 6)..
“This is an initiative that will be able to shape children when they grow up because it is better to train a child when they are still at a tender age,” she said.
The principles of the Rukun Negara are holistic, accurate and relevant not only for now but also for future generations.
“Therefore, an appreciation for these pillars is important to ensure the sustainability of peace and harmony in society,” said Fatimah.
“It can foster the spirit of unity among the people regardless of race, religion and race.”
The event held for two days was attended by about 200 participants among whom were students and members of the NGOs.
She suggested that the Department of National Unity and Integration (JPNIN) and Ministry of National Unity (KPN) collaborate with the local councils to bring such programmes to the youth in the Central and Northern Zones in Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Fatimah also said as future leaders, youth need to understand that unity and harmony are not something that can be achieved without hard work.
She said understanding the culture of the Rukun Negara can make youth the agents of community unity, who are able to appreciate diversity, uphold justice and practice mutual respect.
“With the theme “Menjiwai Rukun Negara’, this programme is expected to produce a generation of young people who are able to appreciate diversity, uphold justice, and practice mutual respect,” she said.
The programme held here, is the first in a series and Sarawak is also a pioneer state to apply the ‘Modul Penghayatan Rukun Negara: which is based on a value-based, systemic and integrated approach as well as impact on the community.
“Although Sarawak is seen as a model of unity, we should not underestimate this recognition because this status can be lost if not properly maintained.
“Therefore, we need to plan programmes and policies continuously to ensure that the spirit of unity is always nurtured in the souls of young children and adults,” she said.
