‘Malaysia can be powerful if we all unite’

Selangor MB says it is time for national reconciliation to strengthen economy

NATIONAL unity is key to unlocking Malaysia’s potential to be recognised as a powerful and respected country globally, says Selangor Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

“With the state elections over, the time has come for reconciliation from both our national leaders and society,” he said when addressing some 20,000 attendees at the state-level National Day celebrations in Shah Alam, Selangor.

Reflecting on the nation’s journey since gaining independence, Amirudin emphasised the importance of introspection and commemorating sacrifices.

“What kind of nation do we want to have by the time Malaysia reaches its 100th anniversary?

“What role can we play as its citizens? Can we foster an attitude that strengthens dignity and also develop a dignified economy that offers opportunities for Malaysians to compete globally?

“Or will we be content being local champions while watching neighbouring countries not only overtake us but leave us far behind?

“It is not enough for us to gather here today wearing our national colours, waving our flags and feeling that our duty in nation-building is complete.

“Let us unite, respect Islam and other religions, the constitutional monarchy and our Rukun Negara, which will bear witness to our unity and success,” said Amirudin.

A march past made up of school marching bands, government agencies and military personnel filing past the spectators stand during the state-level National Day celebrations.

The state-level celebrations at Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam was attended by people of all ages and from all walks of life.

They were in high spirits as they awaited the countdown.

Starting from 9pm and extending past midnight, the night’s programme featured dance performances from students and a 61-contingent marching parade by school bands, government agencies and military personnel.

Performances by Shah Alam City Council and Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) as well as the Selangor Malay Customs and Heritage Corporation (Padat), Iman Troye and Ziana Zain kept the public entertained.

The tactical and technical demonstrations by the Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Police as well as the Fire and Rescue Department stole the show.

The event was also attended by the Selangor government leadership, state executive council members, district officers and local council heads as well as community representatives.

During the event, Amirudin presented a special donation to both the Selangor Armed Forces Veterans Association and the Selangor Ex-Police Association.

He also awarded the Tokoh Kemerdekaan Selangor (Selangor Independence Figure Award) to family members of the late Lieutenant Adnan Saidi who fought against Japanese forces in World War II.

At the stroke of midnight, seven roars of “Merdeka” reverberated across Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam as countless Jalur Gemilang fluttered in the air.

A fireworks display, which lasted over five minutes, illuminated the night sky just before rock legend Awie came out for the final performance of the evening.