Celebrate Malaysia Day as a united nation against COVID-19

KOTA KINABALU: Sept 16 every year marks the day Malaysia was formed after Sabah and Sarawak united with the Federation of Malaya in 1963.

Today, it could be used to symbolise the way Malaysians must unite in the fight against COVID-19, particularly by adhering to the standard operating procedure (SOP).

"There are many ways we can celebrate Malaysia Day to reflect the peace and harmony in the country," said Institut Aminuddin Baki department of community leadership and special needs Sabah head, Carl Martin Albert.

"Presently we are not permitted to hold gatherings and activities as in the past, but we can show patriotism by helping the government overcome COVID-19 by following instructions or the SOP because the situation is still worrying."

He said Malaysia Day is very meaningful and should be appreciated by all, especially the young in Sabah.

"We should be grateful for the peace and harmony in Sabah as part of Malaysia. So let us continue to unite to combat COVID-19 which has weakened the nation and particularly the economy," he added.

Inanam's Kampung Pinahawaon headman, Misson Madamin, 58, has the same opinion about the simple ways to celebrate, saying: "Besides flying the flag, we can show respect towards one another so that we can continue living in harmony.

Don't let race or religion cause conflict, he said.

Tuaran's Kampung Lapasan headman, Simon Ganjun, 60, said Sabah is well known for its religious and racial harmony.

"I tell everyone, especially those in Kampung Lapasan made up of the Dusun and Bajau people, to respect one another in order to preserve harmony in the village," he said.

-- BERNAMA