KUALA LUMPUR: The spirit behind the formation of Malaysia must be instilled in the younger generation, said Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.
The grandson of the late Tun Jugah Barieng said this was crucial as the country's population comprises different ethnicities, races and cultures.
He said despite the differences, Malaysia was formed in 1963, thanks to the nation's forefathers.
"We have to admit that we have many differences, but let's not make it as a cause for us to fight one another," he told reporters after attending the 'People Library Merdeka Special: Stories from Our Founding Fathers' programme held at Taman Tugu today.
Nanta added that Malaysians should accept and celebrate diversity so that they can build the country together.
Meanwhile, on the event, he said it was a platform for the children and grandchildren of the founding fathers, namely Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman, Tun Sambanthan, Tun Tan Cheng Lock, Tunku Abdul Rahman and Tun Jugah, to share stories and aspirations of the country's forefathers.
Nanta said his beloved grandfather always reminded him to behave properly and never do anything bad to others, or look down upon anyone.
"Back then, I didn't grasp what he was trying to tell me. But now, I understand that was the universal basic life guideline so that we can live harmoniously."
Asked what he remembered the most about his grandfather, Nanta said; "There is a documented quote of him saying 'Anang Malaysia baka tebu, manis dipun tabar di hujung ' (Let's hope that Malaysia will not end up like sugarcane, sweet in the beginning, but bland in the end).
"Although I did not hear it personally, I always look at it closely, whether what he said will become a reality or not.
"I hope it won't because I do not want Malaysia to become like that. But, that was his wisdom."
Jugah was the Paramount Chief of the Iban people for more than 55 years and played a key role in the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
Nanta, who is also the Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs minister, said more of such sharing sessions should be held so that the younger generation can better understand the formation of Malaysia, and subsequently foster the spirit of togetherness.