Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye
SIBU: The patriotic spirit must be inculcated in schools and homes so that the young generation respect the symbols of national sovereignty such as the national flag, said trustee of Malaysia Unity Foundation, Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He pointed out that social development through community activities such as sports, visits, work camps, formation of societal organisations, unity gatherings, festivals, ‘gotong-royong’ and others should be sustained to enhance societal integration and promote the spirit of neighbourliness.
“Every Malaysian should be encouraged to fly the ‘Jalur Gemilang’ as it would create the right atmosphere and add colour to celebrate our Independence Day together with a sense of pride and in a patriotic spirit.
“Malaysians will celebrate the nation’s 63rd Independence Day on Aug 31, 2020. We should be thankful because ever since our country gained Independence in 1957, the nation has generally remained peaceful.
“As a country of many races, cultures, religions and languages, Malaysia is indeed unique in proving how our diversities could be united and harnessed for nation building,” Lee said in a press release yesterday.
He figured that for some, especially the younger generation, they are more comfortable to express their patriotic spirit through social media.
“However, I believe that the impact is greater if we fly the actual flags on our premises and where suitable.
“As Malaysians we should always have a sense of pride and love for the country and must always respect the symbols of our national sovereignty,” he emphasised.
Lee noted that this year’s Independence Day theme ‘Malaysia Prihatin’ or ‘Malaysia Cares’ is very apt in view of the Covid-19 pandemic which has caused severe hardship to the people, while urging the government to do more to care for all Malaysians during such difficult times.
He opined that flying the ‘Jalur Gemilang’ is not the only way to display patriotism, suggesting that Malaysians could do so through their words, thoughts and actions in the interest of the country and in nation-building.
Being patriotic also means contributing one’s views and opinions in areas that can
bring good to the country, he added.
“Expressing one’s feelings through the right channel is one of the basic rights which
should be practised by all patriotic Malaysians who love the country and want the best for the nation.
“In this regard, expressing differing opinions for the sake of the country does not make a person less patriotic and his loyalty to the country should not be questioned,” Lee said.