By Natasha Jee & Tania Lam
This year’s Malaysia Day is the second consecutive one being celebrated in the new normal that came about due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic.
However, just like clouds always have silver lining no matter how bad the weather, everyone regardless of their backgrounds still come together united against the persistent and invisible enemy that respects no one.
On this day, state leaders generally hope for better treatment of Sarawak as it is one of the partners in the formation of Malaysia.
Many also wish that the economy and socio-political unity would continue to grow strong.
Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Datuk Amar James Jemut Masing
Sept 16, 1963 was the day when Malaysia as a nation was born, which promised equality to all with justice to be administered regardless of ethnicity, religion and region.
Prosperity should be equally shared, and opportunities are given based on what the individuals can do. Therefore, the basis is what a person knows, and not whom he knows! Happy Malaysia Day!
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department in charge of Parliament and Law Datuk Seri Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar
On this day, let’s begin with ourselves to forge better understanding, unity and avoid doing and saying something that might hurt the feelings and sensitivity of anyone or a group of our people.
We are a multi-racial, multi-religious and multi-cultural country and we must learn to live with the diversities and differences if we are to succeed as a stable, prosperous and progressive nation.
Plantation Industries and Commodities Deputy Minister Datuk Willie Mongin
This day, 58 years ago, was the result of the incredible vision and untiring efforts of our brave founding fathers. They formed an independent Federation of Malaysia comprising Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore.
I must stress that building good relations with one another especially during these trying times is simply the best simple mantra that we could practise to sustain peace, justice, security and joy for all.
It is my fervent hope that with determination and stability, we all could work hand in glove towards strengthening the resilience of our people and enhancing our economic recovery plan post-pandemic for many years to come. God bless Malaysia.
Utilities Minister Datuk Seri Dr Stephen Rundi Utom
I wish all Malaysians a Happy Malaysia Day that should rekindle the true spirit of the formation of this great nation.
Let us work together in unity to ensure prosperity and the dignity of our nation, more so during this difficult time of facing the Covid-19 pandemic. Let us fight this unprecedented war in full force to protect the lives and the livelihoods of all Malaysians.
Assistant Minister in the Chief Minister’s Department (Islamic Affairs and DBKU) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi
The Malaysia Day celebration is a reflection of the unity of our society which comprises various ethnic groups, religions, and social backgrounds. It is our responsibility as Malaysians who are loyal and love our nation to continue safeguarding the peace, harmony, and progress we have achieved so far.
As we celebrate Malaysia Day this year, we are still at war against Covid-19. We must all be vigilant against this threat which we cannot take lightly. We must constantly strive to take care of ourselves and our families.
Welfare, Community Wellbeing, Women, Family and Childhood Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah
It is my hope that upon entering the endemic phase of the pandemic, Sarawak will quickly go into the recovery stage.
We must be united in this mission; pool all our resources and let not politics, race, or religion rob us of our common vision to achieve for Sarawak a holistic, equitable and inclusive development; prosperity, peace, unity and harmony.
Parti Rakyat Sarawak (PRS) vice-president and Women chief Datuk Seri Doris Brodie
Here’s wishing ‘Malaysia Family’ a happy 58th Malaysia Day. May the nation be continuously blessed with prosperity, harmony and political stability. May we also continue to be a caring nation befitting this year’s Malaysia Day theme, ‘Malaysia Cares’.
Progressive Democratic Party (PDP) Women chief Datuk Chiew Yen Chew
Even though we can’t celebrate our patriotism in a grand manner, it is important to remind all Malaysians to continue to stay united, harmonious, safe and happy.
After what have been difficult years due to the pandemic, we are sure that this special day when Sarawak joined the federation in 1963 will bring the promise of better times with more autonomy for Sarawak while reinforcing good relations the federal government and the rest of the country.
Together, we will stay safe and united, and soldier on to defeat the Covid-19 crisis. Happy Malaysia Day to everyone.
Pending assemblywoman Violet Yong Wui Wui
Happy 58th birthday to Malaysia! Our nation has come a long way since Sept 16, 1963. Let’s all as Malaysians continue to love and respect each other despite our racial, religious, and cultural differences, and truly shine as a united, colourful, prosperous and harmonious nation.
