PUTRAJAYA, 28 AUGUST – As the nation rallies to usher in the 66th Merdeka Day, the less fortunate and underprivileged should not be forgotten.
Communications and Digital Ministry secretary-general Datuk Mohamad Fauzi Md Isa said that Malaysians should count their blessings for enjoying a peaceful and harmonious environment since the country achieved independence from Britain in 1957.
“As we relish our good fortunes, let us not forget the lesser beings among us and usher them along to steadfastly demonstrate our love for the country.
“This show of great patriotism among the multi-ethnic and racial society fosters great unity in a diversified Malaysia,” Fauzi said at a ‘Fly the Jalur Gemilang’ high-tea campaign at the D’Tandoor Restaurant Putrajaya at Ayer@8, Precinct 8.
Present were D’Tandoor International group of restaurants founder-cum-managing director Datuk Abdul Malik Abdullah and Putrajaya police chief Assistant Commissioner Asmadi Abdul Aziz.
The D’Tandoor International group of restaurants did its bit by feteing orphans from the Rumah Anak-anak Yatim Teratak Che Dah from Rawang, Selangor and loyal patrons at the event.
Fauzi said that celebrating Merdeka by as many organisations with government agencies spurred the spirit of togetherness among Malaysians.
“Such efforts by the private sector, non-governmental organisations and entrepreneurs should be lauded, as we forge ahead as one nation,” said Fauzi.
He added that this year’s Merdeka celebrations on Aug 31 at Putrajaya would provide an ideal venue for the public to witness a large-scale event.
“As compared with Dataran Merdeka (in Kuala Lumpur), Putrajaya offers a wider space to accommodate the mammoth march-past and displays by the various contingents.
“There will be the Army’s Red Warriors famed for the military tattoo, the police’s VAT 69 commando para-jumpers, marching brass bands and fly-past of aircraft (helicopters, fighter jets, etc).
“The people will be offered a rare glimpse of what the military and enforcement agencies have in their assets – something rarely seen in public,” said Fauzi.
Meanwhile, Malik said that the event, although considered small, was yet a strong show of patriotism for all and sundry – to demonstrate his gratitude and share the economic pie.
“I urge more multi-national companies and non-governmental organisations to continue the tradition of flying the national flag – the Jalur Gemilang – to create awareness, especially among the younger set to appreciate the moral values.
“Lest it be forgotten, it is a reminder for many of the younger generation of the struggles and sacrifices of our leaders who laid the foundation to achieve independence,” said Malik.
He added that the D’Tandoor International group of restaurants, established 32 years ago, had its fair share of trials and tribulations, especially during the 2020 Covid-19 pandemic.
“That is why we are ever grateful to the Lord Almighty and our loyal patrons for where we are today,” Malik said, adding his outlets offered a 15 per cent dining discount during the month-long Merdeka celebrations. – airtimes.my
