PENANG stands as a shining example of the Malaysia Madani spirit, where people of diverse cultures, ethnicities, and religions live harmoniously in mutual respect.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this unity is the true strength of Penangites and a vital foundation that continues to drive the state’s progress, in line with the Penang2030 vision.
“This year holds even greater significance as Penang has been given the honour of hosting two major national-level events.
“The first was the National Unity Week celebration, which took place over three days beginning July 17 at the Batu Kawan Stadium.
“The second will be the national-level Malaysia Day celebration, which Penang will proudly host on Sept 16,” Chow said in his speech before launching the state-level National Month celebration and ‘Fly the Jalur Gemilang’ campaign at Kompleks Masyarakat Penyayang in George Town today.
Chow said the state government accepts this responsibility with a deep sense of duty, openness, and full commitment to ensuring the success of these historic celebrations as platforms to unite Malaysians from all walks of life.
“Therefore, I call upon all Penangites to come together and participate actively, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with unity, patriotism, and national pride.
“As we observe this meaningful month, let us reflect on the true significance of the Jalur Gemilang as our sacred national flag that proudly flies as a symbol of sovereignty, unity, and dignity.
“Raise the Jalur Gemilang with pride and love for the nation, for within its colours are etched our national identity, the struggles of our forefathers, and the undying spirit of independence,” he added.
Chow also urged Penangites to display the Jalur Gemilang proudly on their homes and vehicles.
“The Jalur Gemilang is a symbol of our love for the country. By flying it, we reignite the spirit of patriotism within ourselves, a spirit that must always live in the heart of every Malaysian.
“Let us do this together for the love of our nation, as we continue to pray and hope for the lasting prosperity and success of our beloved state and country,” he said.
Among those present were State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang, Penang State Secretary Datuk Zulkifli Long, Deputy Chief Minister I Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid and Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo.
Others included state executive councillors, state assemblymen, Members of Parliament and various department chiefs.
Chow added that various activities and programmes would be organised by state agencies during the National Month.
During the event, he also distributed Jalur Gemilang to various department chiefs.
Chow later flagged off the Merdeka convoy consisting of police, personnel from the state Information Department, and other agencies. All of them flew the Jalur Gemilang from their vehicles and also distributed mini Jalur Gemilang to the public in the area.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat
Video by Alissala Thian