KUALA LUMPUR: The new generation should emulate the personality of the late Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman, who was a figure known for his integrity and consistency in championing unity, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Reminiscing his younger days when he met with the former deputy prime minister, Anwar said Dr Ismail's assertiveness and high levels of integrity was something that must be made an example for the younger generation as future leaders of the nation.
"Nobody can dispute the fact that Tun (Dr Ismail) was a patriot. A true nationalist. I still remember his speech in a student event (which I attended as a student), he was true and consistent to his beliefs.
"He stressed the importance of saving the country and to accept all people in the spirit of one true family.
"This is what we must learn from. Instead of just remembering his contributions, being nostalgic, we want to revive this idealism to save the country and the nation," he said at the Commemoration of Statesman Tun Dr Ismail Al-Haj - The Pillar of National Unity, held at Dataran Merdeka here, today.
The event was attended by close to 10,000 people, including Dr Ismail's son, Tawfiq.
Anwar said another aspect to learn was his integrity in politics, and how the country can produce a new generation of leaders whose focus is to uphold the same kind of principles as Dr Ismail had.
"Years after the generation of our early leaders like Tun Abdul Razak Hussein and Dr Ismail, we have prominent figures… this I will not deny.
"But it is difficult to compete with such a figure (like Dr Ismail) with such (high values) of integrity.
His demeanour, his firm stand in opposing corruption and supporting good governance, which was revered by the people.
"The people respected him for his integrity. He cannot be bought, not easily persuaded with words, money, or wealth.
"Our country will be safe if its leaders have integrity," he added.
Also present at the event were Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Anak Dagang and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Mohd Zuki Ali.
Meanwhile, Anwar also highlighted Dr Ismail's clear policies and visions to rebuild the country after the May 13, 1969 racial riots.
He said even though Dr Ismail was an aristocrat, he was always humble when talking about the policies for rural development.
"He had a clear vision, which was to develop the country, drive growth, and give hope to every citizen be it the Malays, Chinese, Indians, and the people of Sabah and Sarawak."
