LETTERS: Every year, when we commemorate National Day on Aug 31, what comes to mind is patriotism, unity and love for our nation.
This should be the same this year despite the challenges we are facing. We can define patriotism as a love of and respect for our homeland.
It is a sense of natural pride in one's country that drives people to work hard for the development of the nation, protect its heritage and culture, and safeguard the country from being destroyed by external or internal forces.
Patriotism also equates to the dedication and sacrifice of a lifetime for the nation. Patriotism also implies a sense of belonging that binds people together. It is usually symbolised by flying the flag and respecting the national anthem. A national flag symbolises the spirit of patriotism, pride, unity and devotion to the nation.
Under the Jalur Gemilang, Malaysia attained independence and its people built their lives harmoniously, irrespective of race, colour or creed. We also strive to build a sustainable nation for our future generations.
However, I need to stress here that flying the Jalur Gemilang is not the only way to express patriotism. It can come in various forms. When we speak up and defend our country, it is a patriotic act.
Malaysians can display patriotism through their words, thoughts and actions in the interest of the country and in nation-building. That means contributing your views and opinions in areas that can bring good to the country.
Expressing one's unbiased and sincere feelings about the affairs of our nation is a right and responsibility of all patriotic Malaysians who want a better Malaysia.
Therefore, making constructive criticisms in the interest of the nation does not make a person less patriotic. Patriotism should be inculcated in children because when children love their homeland, they will grow up appreciating their heritage, diversity and history, and strive to improve Malaysia in all aspects.
Patriotism can be instilled in students through awareness, education and knowledge. The education system should be tailored to inculcate a sense of pride and belonging to the in them. A sense of belonging is a significant element that needs to be nurtured and preserved among the students.
Only through a sense of belonging will the younger generation be moulded into responsible and mature citizens, as well as leaders.
Let the children together and get to know, understand and appreciate their peers from all backgrounds. The younger generation must be made aware of the importance of unity, social cohesion, and reconciliation as they are the cornerstone of the nation's success and development.
As students are the future leaders of the nation, it is imperative that they forge closer relations between them. Fostering unity should begin in schools, where efforts can be made to instil the values of inter-racial harmony and peace in students.
Teachers need to use creativity and skills to get students to participate in activities that enhance racial integration and unity.
Students should participate in school and outdoor activities that enable them to interact with one another and build lasting friendships. Students must be colour blind and regard each other as friends.
School principals and teachers must encourage students to understand one another better and to have mutual respect for each other.
They must be the prime movers of our educational transformation, and not only teach and impart knowledge and skills but also unite students in line with the aspiration of a united Malaysia.
Parents need to cultivate and practise positive values to inspire their children to build a stable nation. Honesty, integrity, tolerance, diligence, fairness, respect for the elderly, and civic-consciousness must be upheld.
After 65 years of independence, Malaysians should be more united as we share the same hopes, aspirations and dreams for a better nation.
All of us should proudly identify ourselves as Malaysians first. I have always believed that being a Malaysian does not make a person less Malay, Chinese, Indian, Kadazan, Iban, Bidayuh and others.
National unity and integration could be made stronger and vibrant through the inculcation of the value of patriotism. History has proved that Malaysia could overcome challenges if its people were united.
Our diversity is our strength, and it is the recipe for success in achieving development and socio-economic progress, as well as our ability to conquer adversities.
Malaysians complement one another, and our diversity should not prevent us from living a united and harmonious life.
TAN SRI LEE LAM THYE
Trustee, Malaysia Unity Foundation
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times
