KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia commemorates its 65th National Day, Malaysia Unity Foundation Trustee Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye says the importance of the Rukun Negara should be emphasised as a guide for nation-building and respected by all.
"Rukun Negara is a shared vision for national unity, its principles should always be upheld and practised for we must never take for granted the stability, peace and harmony we have attained so far," he said.
Lee said the Rukun Negara would always remain relevant as Malaysia's national philosophy because its aspirations and principles were universal and eternal.
He said many were unaware of the five aspirations and five principles under the Rukun Negara.
"The aspirations of the Rukun Negara are to achieve greater unity among Malaysians; preserve a democratic way of life, create a just society where prosperity in the country can be enjoyed in an equitable manner; ensure a liberal approach to our rich and varied cultural traditions; and build a progressive society through science and technology.
"What is important is the serious commitment and reflection in achieving national unity, many of our major challenges have been swept under the carpet and because of that, we are not able to deal with challenges of unity," he said.
He urged Malaysians of different ethnicities to remain conscious of the need to have mutual respect for one another.
"They must always remain vigilant and be conscious of the sensitivities of our respective religions and cultures for the sake of inter-racial harmony.
"All Malaysians must adopt and practise the principle of moderation which is the key to nation-building.
"The most urgent task of all Malaysians irrespective of race, religion and political affiliation is to ensure racial and religious harmony and reject all forms of extremism which can undermine inter-racial and inter-religious peace and harmony," he reminded.
He said this was the time for all level-headed patriotic Malaysians to step up in furthering the cause of a united Malaysian nation.
"This is not the time for anyone to make incendiary statements that are provocative and can lead to conflict and tension with serious consequences affecting peace, harmony and national unity.
"As responsible and patriotic Malaysians, it is our profound duty to work for peace and harmony and refrain from acts of provocation and violence which will result in conflict and chaos.
"The time has come for us to identify more ethnic bridge builders and not ethnic heroes and emphasise on their crucial role, to breakdown the serious racial divide in the larger interest of improving ethnic relations in our country," he said.
Lee said everyone had a role to play by giving greater emphasis to the idea of Malaysian oneness and togetherness based on the great values and virtues taught by all the religions and races instead of harping on and exploiting ethnic sentiments.
"Multiracial living and community are part of our history and heritage. They have become a key source of racial integration for years and have certainly played a part in making Malaysia a harmonious place to live, learn, work and play.
"Unity in diversity is a priceless gift that must be cherished by all Malaysians. Every peace-loving Malaysian regardless of race should be fully committed to promoting a culture of peace, harmony and unity.
"Let us include every Malaysian in the building of unity. We must start speaking with one voice, one that is inclusive of Malaysians of every ethnic background as we all contribute to the stability and economic prosperity of this country.
"Let us all be committed to promote a culture of peace, harmony and unity."