BY NUR ATIQAH QURATULAINI & NURFARAHIN OKI
KUCHING: A strong and steady spirit of patriotism is essential for national identity and should not be limited to seasonal celebrations like Sarawak Day in July, National Day in August or Malaysia Day in September.
Minister in Premier’s Department Datuk Seri John Sikie Tayai said patriotism should be a constant presence, reflected in the daily responsibilities and lives of the people.
“I believe expressing patriotism through social media platforms not only encompasses a wide target audience but also has the potential to create positive trends and vibes among the people,” he said when officiating at the state-level 2024 Merdeka Month Expression programme celebration at Mydin, Petra Jaya, on Sunday.
He also suggested that the Flying the Jalur Gemilang Campaign Programme will be carried out as usual every year.
“All citizens, together fly the Jalur Gemilang in every corner of Sarawak because that is the expression of our people towards an independent and sovereign country,” he said.
Sarawak Information Department (JaPen) director Tuan Helmy bin Hamid added that the programme served as a kick-off event marking the countdown to the National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations this year.
“This event aims to increase awareness among Malaysians about the significance of these historic dates, as a step towards building a stronger and more united Malaysia.
“Hopefully, through awareness of the importance of this historic date, every individual can feel called to contribute the best for the country, as well as appreciating diversity, culture, and differences that are Malaysia’s strength,” he added.
The Merdeka Month Expression 2024 was also being held simultaneously in three locations: KL Sentral, Kuala Lumpur, officiated by Minister of Communications Fahmi Fadzil, at Central Atrium, Penampang, Sabah, and in Kuching on Sunday.
