LETTERS: Regaining the Malaysian spirit is a pre-requisite to ensure a solid future for all Malaysians.
It was that spirit that brought people of all the races together in our struggle for independence and provided the backbone for our subsequent progress and development.
It is timely, therefore, to introduce a programme to deepen the people's understanding, particularly the younger generation, of sacrifices made by our founding fathers in the hope of propagating that ethos.
The Madani Nationhood Training Module is meant to draw strength from our past to meet the future challenges.
A strong sense of patriotism transcends differences in ethnicity, religion and culture, while promoting a collective identity that binds citizens together.
Patriotism also fuels a sense of responsibility towards the nation's progress and development.
Embracing patriotism often involves celebrating and preserving our rich cultural heritage. This includes traditions, languages, arts and historical landmarks.
To revive the patriotic spirit among Malaysians, several approaches can be adopted.
Adherence to the Rukun Negara is an essential step.
Education is another important factor. Lessons on our past, our struggles and sacrifices of the early leaders in nation-building, are essential.
But it must be asked: Is our education system giving our children the correct historical facts and emphasis?
I recently viewed a video showing our schoolchildren's dismal understanding of our history.
In it, a group of children were shown pictures of our past leaders but they were unable to identify them, let alone know of their contributions and sacrifices for the nation.
On the other hand, they were very knowledgeable about current pop idols and entertainers.
The younger generation are our hope for the future and should be given the opportunity to imbibe and propagate the spirit of the past.
The Madani Nationhood Training Module, therefore, should include community events, forums and cultural events that celebrate Malaysian identity and diversity.
It should use the traditional and social media to promote positive narratives of Malaysia's achievements, including how individuals — politicians, academics, businessmen, civil society and members of the armed forces — sacrificed their time, energy and resources to keep us safe and moving forward.
By implementing these strategies, we can cultivate a renewed sense of patriotism that transcends differences and unites the diverse populations in the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Kuala Lumpur
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times