BETONG: The spirit of patriotism must be embraced by all levels of society, especially the youth, says Utilities and Telecommunications Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi.
Speaking at the Sarawak State Level National Day Celebration here, he said there is a need for youngsters to be instilled with the values of patriotism from a young age, shaping them to develop a love for the country.
He said this will also ensure that their patriotic spirit will not fade into old age.
“The younger generation should also be taught the values of life that do not prioritise self-interest alone, but give priority to the interests of the country.
“This is because the country needs a disciplined and productive generation that will steer the country’s leadership in the future,” he said today (Aug 31).
Julaihi, who is the minister-in-charge of this year’s National Day celebration, said various events have been organised throughout the event to maximise the involvement of the local community here.
“Bandar Betong is decorated with flags to increase the national spirit among the locals. It is an effort to popularise this celebration, with active and comprehensive involvement of various levels of the community here and the surrounding area.”
He said the goal of today’s celebration is to raise awareness amongst the people, especially the youth, on the importance of patriotism, with love and willingness to defend and protect the country.
“The event of waving the Jalur Gemilang in each of the previous celebrations is hoped to not only be seen from a symbolic point of view, but is also viewed as a spirit of love for the country because this country is ours together.
“Independence means a starting point to raise the prestige of the country and its people. As a reminder to all of us, the pursuit of independence is not the final goal of the formation of a nation, but it is a beginning to achieve a bigger dream. A dream that crosses the boundaries of religion, race and even the social background of the existing society.
“We as children of the country should sincerely welcome this trust and the young people should have high determination as a continuation of efforts to realise the inclusion of this dream,” he asserted.
