PUTRAJAYA – Any proposal to use a different logo and theme for the National Day celebration will be recognised as a bid to promote disunity, said National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang.
Aaron said such proposals hinder the government’s efforts in ensuring the well-being of the community.
He was referring to the statement made by Perikatan Nasional (PN) youth chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari who proposed that the four states under the PN administration use a different National Day logo and theme for state-level celebrations.
“This is closely related to the spirit of cooperation, tolerance, and good relations between the federal government and states, which must be dealt with carefully.
“Leaders at every level should play an important role as catalysts to propagate and strengthen unity, and ensure good governance at the federal and state levels through socio-political and economic boundaries,” he said.
The media reported Fadhli as saying Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, and Terengganu, which are under PN rule, would likely use the alternative logo and theme “Teguh Muafakat Malaysia Sejahtera” (Strong Consensus for a Prosperous Malaysia) that was launched by PN Youth yesterday.
Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil had earlier announced “Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan, Penuhi Harapan” (Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope) as the theme of the 2023 National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
Aaron said the theme, launched on May 27, was to foster a spirit of unity and patriotism and instil a deep love for the nation.
He said that every Malaysian is well aware that the event is celebrated every year with the spirit of patriotism and love for the country to remember the sacrifices of freedom fighters and their struggles for the country’s independence.
“The National Day celebration is a national celebration. The logo and theme that have been set symbolise togetherness among Malaysians,” he said.
Aaron also called on all parties to help promote national unity and join hands to ensure that efforts to strengthen unity can be optimally achieved because unity is key to building a harmonious and prosperous nation.
“Let us not be the cause of division or misunderstanding among the people. It’s not a question of who is weak or strong and who is good or bad, but it is more about working together regardless of background or political beliefs,” he said. – Bernama, August 20, 2023
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