Hassan (second left) being briefed on the activities held to mark the Putatan Level 1Malaysia Community Unity Programme.
PUTATAN: The 1Malaysia Community Unity Programme is not just another activity to unite the people, but also an avenue to educate the public.
District Officer Abdul Ghani Pg Yusof, in disclosing this said it was also the best approach to spread the true and correct messages to the people, be it in the urban or rural areas.
A mother and her twins who took part in the children fashion show yesterday.
He explained that through the programme, it could also instill the patriotism spirit and promote love to the leaders, by organising special activities.
“Such efforts would be a platform to spread awareness on the integrity and solidarity among the people.
“Mutual understanding and respect are the recipes to the existing harmony that we enjoy today. Religion and cultural differences are not a barrier to ensure the success of the 1Malaysia concept,” he said when launching the programme at the district level, here, yesterday.
Abdul Ghani’s speech was read by his assistant Hassan Mahali.
He said solidarity and mutual understanding should remain as the people’s strength.
“As a country which has achieved independence, we would love to ensure that the existing peace and harmony remain, and the recent intrusion in Lahad Datu has created fear among us.
“But I would like to assure the people that they need not fear or worry as the problem is being tackled by our able security forces,” he said.
He said the setting up of the Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCOM) proved that the government was concerned over the people’s security and safety.
“But at the same time, the incident has taught us to be aware of our surroundings and learn the importance of teamwork,” he said.
The programme attracted a huge turnout, involving people from different walks of life, age and background.
Among the activities held were a children fashion show, K1M Putatan talent show, Jambo performance and exhibition by government agencies.
Security forces’ personnel also took the opportunity to undergo health screening.