SERIAN: Jalur Gemilang must be waved to instil the spirit of patriotism, especially during the National Day and Malaysia Day celebration.
Special Envoy of the Prime Minister to Japan, South Korea and Taiwan, Datuk Seri Richard Riot Jaem hoped that the National Day celebration will be held every year.
“If possible, I would like us to organise a much bigger celebration next year,” he said.
He also added that there is nothing wrong for Sarawak to celebrate National Day as well, despite its rich history, especially with the formation of Malaysia.
“We’ll take United States of America for example, they celebrated their Independence Day on July 4, and despite Hawaii became the last state to join America, they still celebrate the day America was formed.
“Therefore, there is nothing wrong for us to celebrate National Day which is August 31, even though Malaysia Day, which is September 16, is the real day we celebrate together as a nation,” he added during his speech at the officiation ceremony of Program Mengibar Bendera at Tasik Danu, Serian today.
He added that through the ceremony, he hoped that the nation, especially Sarawak would stay united, in peace and harmony.
Meanwhile, secretary of Serian District Council Constantine Gerald David Jonas said that flag is a symbolism of leadership, respect, prestige and sovereignty of a certain country.
“It is also a huge symbol towards the people of the country to show their spirit of love and proudness towards their country,” he said.
He also added that flag waving ceremony is also a manifestation of love towards the country as well.
“No matter where we wave our flag, whether it is in our office, coffee shop, I believe that is our own way to show our gratefulness towards the independence that we have enjoy throughout the years,” he added.
He then said that tolerance is the biggest strength that the country has ever had ever since its formation.
“I believe that we all wanted a freedom, to live however we want, to practice our own culture without any types of restrictions,” he added.
