KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians should remain vigilant towards the neo-colonialism challenge, says National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
He said neo-colonialism was being perpetrated through deceit with the spread of ideological, cultural and mental influences, particularly via social media.
Aaron said that while the era of colonialism had ended and many nations worldwide had achieved independence, Malaysians must remain vigilant against the subtle influences that trap their mindset.
"It was different back then. In the past, the way we interacted was through newspapers. But now, we use social media, which spreads information quickly.
"If we don't discern the good and bad of social media information, it can lead to negative consequences," he said during the press conference at the Anak Merdeka Celebration today.
Aaron also said all Malaysians should work together to preserve national harmony and demonstrate that Malaysia could be a model nation by upholding unity in diversity.
He also remarked on the patriotic spirit shown at the National Day celebration at Dataran Putrajaya earlier, which was attended by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah.
"Such events enhance national identity and deepen citizens' understanding of the country's history," Aaron said.
He said then prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman, MCA president Tun Tan Cheng Lock and MIC president Tun V.T. Sambanthan had played pivotal roles in uniting the nation's ethnic groups.
"Their legacy of unity should continue to inspire current and future generations," he said.
The post-Independence generation, he said, should appreciate the true meaning of freedom and to adhere to the principles of the Federal Constitution and Rukun Negara.
"Our diversity is an advantage, and we must work together to maintain peace and harmony in Malaysia," he said.
The Anak Merdeka Celebration programme, held in conjunction with the 67th Independence Day, took place at the Tun Hussein Onn Memorial Main Hall here today.