G25 Malaysia looks forward to celebrating with fellow Malaysians as the country welcomes Merdeka Day on 31 August.
It is a historic date, marking the day Malaya gained independence from British colonial rule in 1957. For decades, the British administration governed Malaya, and Malayan independence in 1957 ultimately paved the way for the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
When declarations of “Merdeka!” were raised by our first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, to mark the historic moment on 31 August 1957, many in the crowd could not hold back tears of joy.
Although many years have passed, National Day will always be celebrated with passion across the country.
The reason for celebrating? Malaysia has achieved so much as an independent country, with socioeconomic development surpassing all expectations. We have proven to the pessimists that our local people can produce leaders to govern the country even better than the British.
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Yet, as we approach this year’s Merdeka celebrations, G25 is concerned over recent events. Certain politicians appear to be politicising an incident involving our national flag, turning it into an opportunity for public confrontation rather than reasoned discussion.
Such selfish and politically opportunistic behaviour, especially when emotions are already running high, risks drawing large groups with opposing views to the same location. This could create an unnecessary flashpoint for conflict.
This is not the Malaysia our founding fathers envisioned when they fought for our independence. They envisioned a nation built on unity, mutual respect and a shared commitment to harmony. Turning national symbols into political tools undermines those values.
We therefore urge all political leaders to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could provoke tensions or inflame public sentiment. Disputes, especially those touching on national symbols, must be addressed through the rule of law, through calm dialogue, and with due respect for public safety.
G25 calls on the authorities to act decisively and proactively to mediate between the parties involved. They must ensure that public order is preserved, and prevent any escalation that could threaten the peace.
As a nation, we must remember that unity, mutual respect, and the preservation of harmony are at the heart of our Merdeka spirit.
Malaysia chairs Asean this year. The eyes of the region and the international community are on us now more than ever.
This is a time for Malaysia to lead by example by ensuring that the values we champion in the region are upheld with equal sincerity and commitment at home.
This Merdeka, let us set aside political theatre and recommit ourselves to the values that brought our nation into being. We must show respect for the rule of law and human rights, care for one another, and show the determination to keep Malaysia a safe and harmonious home for all. – G25
AGENDA RAKYAT - Lima perkara utama
- Tegakkan maruah serta kualiti kehidupan rakyat
- Galakkan pembangunan saksama, lestari serta tangani krisis alam sekitar
- Raikan kerencaman dan keterangkuman
- Selamatkan demokrasi dan angkatkan keluhuran undang-undang
- Lawan rasuah dan kronisme
