Preserve Meaning Of National Independence, Unity, Well-being And Peace - Ewon

PENAMPANG, Aug 5 (Bernama) -- Entrepreneur and Cooperatives Development Minister Datuk Ewon Benedick urged Malaysians, especially in Sabah, to fill the meaning of national independence by defending the unity, well-being, and peace currently enjoyed.

He said this approach is important for the common good because only with harmony and stability can more sustainable national development be implemented, and national sovereignty can be continuously defended.

"This all starts with cooperation, unity, and harmony because if the people are at odds with one another, unable to cooperate or be in harmony, how can national sovereignty be defended?

"This is because (disunity and conflict) enable external parties to further divide what exists in this country if its people are in conflict. That's why I believe it is important that unity, cooperation, and harmony (continue to be preserved)," he told reporters after officiating the Sabah Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang 2025 here today.

The convoy, involving 20 vehicles and 60 participants from various government departments and agencies, will travel 2,500 kilometres over 20 days, covering 75 stopover locations throughout the state.

The annual program by the Sabah Information Department aims to ensure that the community is directly involved in this year's National Day and Sabah Day celebrations.

Penampang is the first district visited today before the journey concludes in Tuaran on Aug 23.

Ewon hopes that similar programs can be continued in the future as an effort to ignite patriotic spirit and love for the country among the people.

He also invited the people of Sabah to participate in the "One House, One Jalur Gemilang" initiative by flying at least one Malaysian flag at their respective homes.

Commenting on the National Day theme "Malaysia MADANI, Rakyat Disantuni" (Malaysia MADANI, People Cared For), Ewon said the theme is in line with the aspirations of the 13th Malaysia Plan, reflecting the commitment of the MADANI government led by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in empowering the nation's development vision, especially in uplifting the dignity of the people.

"I hope this theme reaches the grassroots. I am confident that the people understand what the government is doing, which is not only to care for them but also to champion and uplift their dignity," he said.

-- BERNAMA