KUALA LUMPUR: The government must ensure that the country's wealth is being shared equally, while at the same time tackle many challenges including making poverty eradication its highest priority.
This, as the nation celebrates its 56th Malaysia Day on Monday (Sep 16), said trustee of Malaysia Unity Foundation, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said nothing contributes to harmony and unity more than the authorities addressing citizens’ needs through fair and affirmative actions.
“Malaysia Day should also be a day for all Malaysians, regardless of background and age, to reflect on our nation’s achievements and how it is to be for the future.
“A historic day like this should be able to rekindle the spirit of patriotism in the hearts of all multi-racial Malaysians,” he said in his Malaysia Day message here, today.
Lee said that despite the South China Sea separating Peninsular Malaysia from Sabah and Sarawak, it should not be a barrier for multi-ethnic Malaysians to share the same hope and aspirations.
“Malaysians in the Peninsula should learn from those in Sabah and Sarawak, where people of diverse ethnicities, religions and customs live together in harmony and peace.
“Malaysians in Sabah and Sarawak, meanwhile, must continue to support the country’s social integration, so that sustainable progress can continue, not only to be enjoyed by the present generation but also future generations,” he said.
Lee added that the federal government should also foster a close bond between the Peninsula and Sabah and Sarawak, especially in making sure that East Malaysia enjoys equitable development and modernisation.
“56 years after Malaysia’s formation, we – regardless of the states we came from – should be more united, because we share the same hopes, dreams and goals.
“We need to strengthen this solidarity, especially in the current challenging domestic and external environments.
“History proves that Malaysia is able to overcome any challenge if its people are united and jointly overcoming the adversities,” Lee said.
He said Malaysia’s diversity is its strength and the recipe of success in achieving development and socio-economic progress, as well as its ability to overcome various difficulties.
“Looking at the current situation in the country, where racial polarisation remains a serious issue, the need to strengthen social harmony and unity has become more important than ever.
“We must never allow the harmonious relations among the various races to be threatened by racial polarisation, which could lead to racial discord and lack of understanding and mutual respect. Racial polarisation is a major obstacle to national integration and unity,” he added.
Lee said Malaysians must also oppose religious bigotry and racial extremism and instead stand up for moderation.
He added that every Malaysian must give serious attention to the concept of unity and togetherness, based on noble values and integrity taught by all religions.
“The diversity of our country is an asset that we should be proud of, and everyone can see the advantages and the beauty of diversity in this country.
“We should never deal with any issue with our emotions, but instead face them with maturity, moderation and mutual understanding in order to find solutions based on dialogue and consensus.
“We must renew our sense of love for the nation and help support the country’s resolution to bolster its identity in the international arena,” he said.