In his address in conjunction with National Day tomorrow, which was broadcast over local television stations tonight, the prime minister said this was key in the efforts to develop Malaysia and safeguard its sovereignty.
“In the context of brotherhood, relatives are cared for; in the context of family, family members are protected; in the context of community, the community is safeguarded; in the context of a nation, racial unity is key; indeed, we are all one family: Keluarga Malaysia (the Malaysian Family), perpetuator of heritage,” he said.
Recalling history, Ismail reminded Malaysians that the fruits and blessings of independence did not merely fall into our laps, but was achieved through blood, sweat and tears.
“Many lives were lost and property and assets were damaged in the pursuit of independence,” he said.
Citing the names of Mat Kilau, Dol Said, Tok Janggut, Datuk Bahaman, Tok Gajah, Rentap, Maharajalela, Dato’ Sagor, Abdul Rahman Limbong, Datu Mat Salleh and Rosli Dhobi, the prime minister said they were among the historical figures who sacrificed themselves for their beloved nation.
“Mat Kilau once called for the younger generation to continue the struggle; not let the nation be forsaken, and not to be easily defeated.
“Such spirit must be instilled in the younger generation so that they will know our national heroes, in addition to guiding our leaders towards the right path according to religious teachings and demands,” he said.
He said it was such fighting spirit and struggles that paved the way for the 1956 independence talks in London.
“It is the independence values that successfully went on to foster unity within a diverse Keluarga Malaysia of various races and religions, and also integrate the cultures that span across the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak.
“There are no words that can describe our admiration and gratitude for the sacrifices and struggles of our past national heroes, including members of our security forces – the military and the police,” he said.
Moving forward, Ismail reminded Malaysians that in modern times, colonisation was no longer what it was in the colonial era, and said that if the “rakyat” were not united and failed to defend the country’s independence, history could repeat itself and the nation might find itself colonised once again.
The prime minister said that even though this new form of colonisation would not be physical in nature, it was still dangerous and the easiest way to “plunder” (cause damage to) the minds and identity of the people, and go on to destroy a nation.
“This emerging modern era of colonisation which has not spared any nation is colonisation in the fields of economy, technology and culture. These external elements apply various sophisticated methods to re-colonise.”
The National Day is back to being celebrated on a grand scale this year after the nation was hit by the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, thus allowing the people to physically participate in the celebrations.
The National Day celebration will be held at Dataran Merdeka, here, starting as early as 7am tomorrow, and it will be graced by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah.
In paying homage to the King, the prime minister said His Majesty is the protector of the nation who unites the people regardless of race, religion and political leaning.
“Alhamdullilah (Praise be to God), this year, Keluarga Malaysia nationwide will have the opportunity to celebrate National Day on a grand scale as one harmonious and prosperous society,” he said.