KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's 61-year journey has been one of resilience and growth, with challenges that have matured the nation and brought its people together.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this to commemorate Malaysia Day, urging the people to reject division and hostility.
He said Malaysians should embrace unity to propel the nation to greater heights.
"Our beloved nation Malaysia is 61 years old, and together, we have overcome various challenges during this period and have emerged stronger.
"This annual celebration should spark a sense of spirit and manifest unity, along with deep love for the homeland, among Malaysians across all races, religions and cultures.
"Happy 61st Malaysia Day," said Anwar on Facebook today.
Malaysia Day is celebrated on Sept 16 each year to commemorate the formation of Malaysia in 1963. This year's national-level Malaysia Day celebration will be held at Padang Merdeka in Kota Kinabalu tonight.