Need to nurture spirit of nationalism, patriotism

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Abdul Karim (second left) presents a mock cheque to a winner as other guests of honour look on. — Photo by Chimon Upon

Abdul Karim (second left) presents a mock cheque to a winner as other guests of honour look on. — Photo by Chimon Upon

KUCHING: Programmes to nurture the spirit of nationalism and patriotism in people should be on the calendar of government agencies every year.

In pointing this out, Assistant Minister of Youth (Urban) Development Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said efforts must be intensified in urban areas that lacked this spirit each time the National Day came around.

“From what we can see, it’s always the rural areas which are active in celebrating National Day.”

Abdul Karim was speaking at a prize-giving for the National Day ‘Bulan Keceriaan’ event at Riverside Majestic Hotel here on Thursday night.

According to him, the government welcomes efforts to promote the National Day mood such as fly the Jalur Gemilang, and programmes to promote the patriotism spirit among the people.

“We should support the effort as the patriotism spirit is weak, especially in urban areas. People need to realise that they should show love for the nation,” he said.

Limbang District Education Office was champion in the Government Building category while Pusat Internet 1Malaysia Niah won for the Private Sector Building category.

In the Traditional Village category, Kampung Sambir in Samarahan was the winner while SMK Paku, Bau won for the School category.

Taman Alamanda, Lorong 2E won for the Housing category while Embol Siok, the Individual Residential category.

SK Tiga Kampong in Limbang won in the Arch category whole Anjung Komuniti 1Malaysia Tang Itong, Lawas won in the Anjung Komuniti 1Malaysia category.

Also present were Deputy State Secretary Datu Misnu Taha and state Information Department deputy director Zaini Mohamad.