Kuala Lumpur – Malaysian Prime Minister (PM) Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin declared that Malaysians must uphold the trust in the government to maintain the independence, sovereignty and peace of the country.
In Malayia’s 63rd National Day (Merdeka Day) 2020 message aired via national media platforms on Sunday (30 Aug), PM Muhyiddin said: “We must preserve the peace of our country. We must uphold justice and preserve the freedom of the people. We must ensure that all citizens of this beloved country are prosperous and peaceful forever.”
He quoted the same message by the first Prime Minister, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman, in the 1957 declaration of independence. The latter emphasised that the country should remain independent and sovereign, and all its people be peaceful and prosperous forever.
“This is the trust that must be upheld by me and all of you. We must maintain the independence of our country. We must defend the sovereignty of our country,” reiterated PM Muhyiddin.
He continued that although Malaysia had achieved success and progress as an independent and sovereign country with strong racial unity, there are still challenges ahead, especially in the effort to become a developed country.
PM Muhyiddin noted that the sought development is not only centred on economic progress, stock exchange index or total foreign and domestic direct investment. It is also in terms of the source of income and the quality of life of every citizen.
“Economic growth figures will only be meaningful when all of you have adequate sources of income, comfortable homes, perfect education, good health as well as a sustainable and safe environment to live a happy and prosperous life.
“From a backward country once upon a time, we have become a progressive country in various fields. We are also thankful that the country remains peaceful and the people of various races and religions are united,” he said.
Themed “Malaysia Prihatin” or “Malaysia Cares” in English, the theme for this year’s National Day carries a deep meaning for Malaysians as the country is still fighting the Covid-19 pandemic.
For the first time in history, the National Day celebration on Monday (31 Aug) will be held in accordance with the new standard operating procedures under the ongoing recovery movement control order.
This year, there will be no assemblies and parades by uniformed bodies, government agencies and private sector, but instead, they will be replaced by events with a limited number of attendees.