Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob, in his maiden National Day address, said he hopes the celebrations this year will be the last under the cloud of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Drawing from the country's independence struggle, he urged all Malaysians to play their role in fighting the Covid-19 enemy.
He said this included ensuring that they are vaccinated against Covid-19.
"In conjunction with this Independence Day, we need to continue the war against the Covid-19 pandemic which is our primary enemy.
"Only success can set us on the path of economic recovery under a new norm. The economy needs to be revived, the people's welfare improved and investor confidence restored.
"Therefore, I urge the Malaysian Family to immediately get vaccinated as one of the means to revive the country. The vaccines have proven to have a positive impact in the battle against this pandemic," he said in a televised address.
Ismail Sabri is presently under quarantine after being exposed to a Covid-19 patient.
He said the Covid-19 pandemic can only be defeated if everyone gives their cooperation.
"I truly hope that through the cooperation from everyone, this year will be the last that we celebrate Merdeka Day amid the war against the Covid-19 pandemic," he said.
Unprecedented challenges
He said the challenges today amid the Covid-19 pandemic and economic downturn is unprecedented for any government and has also threatened the country's political stability.
He added that during this 64th Merdeka Day, the people should show their determination to revive the country.
He cited the centuries-long struggle for independence since the collapse of the Malacca government in 1511.
"Throughout the more than four centuries, countless lives and priceless possessions were lost," he said.
However, he said the country's fighting spirit had never faded.
He added that the country's leaders came together after the Second World War in order to achieve independence.
"I have to mention historical facts because every country that wants to rise from any crisis must know history.
"People who know history will have a strong character and mutual respect.
"Most importantly, they will have a focussed mindset in overcoming any challenges as a part of a big family - the Malaysian Family," he said. - Mkini
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