Speaking at a function to launch the Raise the Flag campaign in the month leading up to National Day on Aug 31, the premier noted that Malaysia is not free from threats of colonisation despite having gained independence.
“(Today) there are threats to colonise the minds and spirits of our people.
"When we raise theJalur Gemilang... it is clear to the world that we are ready to make sacrifices so that this blessed land is not undermined by anyone with ill-intentions towards our nation," he said.In a spirited speech, Najib (left) added that the best way to appreciate our independence and to show patriotism is to strive towards the betterment of the country.
"Our predecessors had taken arms to fight, and we owe it to them and those who won our Independence through their intellect and skillful negotiation. We have inherited a country built on their hard work.
"When someone has the spirit of patriotism burning inside them, he places the future of this country as his priority. That is a real meaning of independence," he said before leading the crowd to chant "Merdeka" and "1Malaysia".
Najib said this to more than 1000 who packed KL Sentral today, including NGO members, National Service trainees, students and government-linked company employees.
The prime minister had arrived at KL Sentral via the Express Rail Link from Putrajaya, accompanied by almost all cabinet ministers, their deputies, ministry secretary generals and the chief secretary of the government, Sidek Hassan (right).
Najib said that the "gliding" train shows how modern Malaysia is and the presence of the leaders at the event shows that the government cares for the people.
'Beware subversive and radical elements'
Also spotted at the event, which featured performances from break dancers and rappers alongside traditional music and patriotic songs, were Information Department leaflets warning against "rabble rousers".
The leaflets which deemed street demonstrations as "foreign culture (which) could lead to riots" also called for readers to "avoid being used by enemies of the state".
"Beware of subversive elements, (their) agenda is to undermine the nation's peace and stability.
"Subversive struggles use radical approach and reject any forms of negotiation (while) inciting hatred against leaders," it read.
The PM today also launched the Merdeka Jalur Gemilang Ramadan Convoy 2011 -part of the Raise the Flag campaign-comprising of 11 four wheel drives and 54 high powered motorcycles commemorating the 54th year of independence.
The convoy will travel nationwide from Aug 1 to Sep 16 (as Aug 31 coincides with Hari Raya Aidilfitri) to take part in community activities like multicultural break fast sessions and the handing over of donations to the needy. - Malaysiakini
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