Rais: 1Malaysia concept must be instilled at all festivals

Rais said the 1Malaysia concept was not just a matter of lip service by the nation’s leaders. — File pic

SUNGAI SIPUT, Nov 17 — The 1Malaysia concept inspired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak should be practised in all forms of multi-racial festivals, said Information Communication and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim.  

He said the concept was not just a matter of lip service by the nation’s leaders but something which must be instilled through such celebrations.

“This is to signify that all Malaysians stand as one and determined to uphold the concept,” he said during the 2012 Malaysia Deepavali Open House at Ladang Infoternak here today.   

He said today’s open house was a sign of respect from the government to the entire Indian community in the country. 

“It feels more joyous here, with the Malays and Chinese celebrating together with the Indians,” he said. 

Rais also thanked the Indian community in Sungai Siput for the warm welcome they showed the Prime Minister and for working very hard in preparing for the open house.

Meanwhile, Minister in Prime Minister’s Department and MIC President G.Palanivel said the overwhelming turn out of more than 25,000 people from all walks of life and races showed a united spirit in support of the Barisan Nasional government.

Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir described the celebrations as fantastic.

The open house, organised by the Ministry of Information Communication and Culture and state government, was aimed at nurturing unity and allowing the public to learn more about the customs and culture of the Indian community.   

Apart from an array of sumptuous Indian food, guests were also treated to a variety of traditional performances by local artistes and cultural troupes. — Bernama