KUCHING: The Rukun Negara (national principles) guides citizens toward leading virtuous lives practising tolerance, unity, acceptance and cooperation.
It also emphasises the importance of upholding the constitution, for all citizens to accept, obey, and protect its sanctity.
In stating this Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Law, MA63, State-Federal Relations) Datuk Sharifah Hasidah Sayeed Aman Ghazali reflected on the historical context of the national principles, which emerged after the tragic events of May 13, 1969.
Speaking at the Sarawak-level Sketsa Rukun Negara Kelab competition here yesterday she stressed that, the constitution was formulated based on the consensus of all parties in the country.
According to Hasidah, in Sarawak, each of these principles has become a routine practice in the lives of its multicultural population, thus demonstrating how unity is consistently emphasised.
“The people of Sarawak, known for freely practising their respective cultures and religions, do so in a spirit of unity.
“They recognise the significance of politeness and decency in their diverse society and remain unaffected by radical ideologies that exploit sensitive issues,”she added.
The competition, an annual programme of Department of Information (JaPen ), serves as a strategic platform for conveying valuable information and messages related to national identity and patriotism.
“It emphasises the importance of understanding and internalising the ‘Five Principles of the National Principles’ proclaimed on Aug 31, 1970,” she said.
Also present was the Director of Information, Jaafar Jantan, representative of the Director of Education Department , Fathullah Farid Jaafar, as well as the heads of departments.
