Malaysians may come from different racial, religious and cultural backgrounds, but the country’s strength lies in its ability to live together peacefully and work towards a shared future, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said.
In a National Day message posted on Facebook on Monday, Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman, said Malaysia’s diversity should be viewed as a source of strength rather than a reason for division.
“In a country with such a rich and diverse background, our strength has always come from living together harmoniously and respecting one another, while placing the national interest above all differences,” he said.
Zahid noted that 69 years ago, independence opened a new chapter for Malaysia as a nation determined to shape its own future.
He said the country’s independence was made possible by the sacrifices, courage and unity of previous generations, who worked tirelessly to secure freedom for the nation.
Today, he said, the responsibility has shifted to the current generation to protect those achievements, strengthen the foundations of independence and ensure Malaysia continues moving forward.
“The responsibility is now in our hands. We must ensure that the Malaysia built through the struggles of our predecessors continues to remain peaceful and prosperous,” he said.
Zahid also called on Malaysians to further strengthen national unity and work together towards building a more progressive and prosperous country, while ensuring a better future is left for the next generation.
He stressed that the independence inherited by Malaysians must continue to be protected, while the country’s progress should benefit people from all walks of life.
“The independence we inherited must continue to be safeguarded, the progress we have achieved must be shared by everyone, and the future of the country must be built together,” he said.
As Malaysia marks another National Day, Zahid’s message serves as a reminder that despite differences in identity and background, the country’s future remains a shared responsibility among all Malaysians.
