Consistently inculcate patriotic spirit, says Rosmah

The prime minister's wife Rosmah Mansor said people in the country should consistently inculcate the spirit of patriotism in themselves.

She said that the spirit could not be cultivated seasonally by simply chanting patriotic words and waving the flag.

She said parents should play an important role in instilling the characteristics of patriotism in their children, so they would grow up loving the country.

"I believe the characteristics of patriotism nurtured since childhood will make them better understand and experience patriotism until adulthood," she said when appearing as a guest on the 'Langit Biru' talk show produced by Bernama Radio and the National Civics Bureau at Wisma Bernama in Kuala Lumpur today.

The programme which was aired for the first time today, was hosted by Bernama Radio anchor Wan Syahrina Abd Rahman and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Azalina Othman Said.

Rosmah is the first guest invited to the programme, which will be broadcast on Bernama Radio every Tuesday, from 6.15pm to 7pm.

Also present were the Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak, the ministry's secretary-general Dr Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad, and Bernama chairperson Azman Ujang.

Rosmah stressed that to be more patriotic citizens, people should give priority to national interests before themselves.

She said Malaysians should respect one another, regardless of race, religion and culture, to help maintain order in the country.

She also answered a question from a caller named Jeremy, who wanted to know how the spirit of patriotism could be re-instilled among the younger generation.

Rosmah said it could be achieved by using information technology.

"Information technology should be used to contact friends of various races, by exchanging ideas on the activities done together. We should not stop mixing with people from other races, and respect all religions, " she said.

Rosmah also said conflicts in other countries should serve as an example to all parties in the country to remain united.

"Don't let it get to a point where there are problems and conflicts in the country, only then we decide to unite," she said.

Besides that, she stressed that unhealthy cultures such as criticising others to the point of causing hatred among the people, should also be avoided.

- Bernama