AUGUST holds a special place in the hearts of all Malaysians. It is a time when the nation comes together under one flag, the Jalur Gemilang, symbolising sovereignty, dignity, and unity among the diverse communities that call Malaysia home.
Deputy Finance Minister Lim Hui Ying joined the public at Chowrasta Market on Sunday morning (Aug 10) for a walkabout and flag distribution programme in conjunction with the upcoming National Day celebrations.
The programme, which saw active community participation, aimed to ignite a patriotic spirit and strengthen the bond between leaders and the people.
“The Jalur Gemilang is more than just a flag. It represents our national pride and shared responsibility in preserving unity across all walks of life,” said Lim.
She urged residents and business owners, especially in the Tanjong constituency, to proudly display the national flag as a sign of patriotism and collective commitment to the country.
“Distributing these small flags is not just symbolic but a way of calling on every Malaysian to show love for the country. Whether at home, in schools, offices or business premises, let us fly the Jalur Gemilang with pride,” she added.
The call to action is in line with the ongoing “1 House, 1 Jalur Gemilang” campaign, spearheaded by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, which encourages the display of the national flag on homes, vehicles, offices, and schools. Fahmi emphasised that the flags should be displayed properly and with honour.
This year’s official theme for National Day and Malaysia Day 2025 is “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni”, a message that places people’s well-being, unity, and social justice at the core of an inclusive nation-building agenda.
“Widespread flag-raising efforts are more than a gesture. They are a tribute to our freedom fighters, a pledge of loyalty to the country, and a source of inspiration for the next generation,” Lim said.
In conjunction with National Day, the government will provide one-off RM100 SARA assistance to all Malaysian citizens aged 18 and above. The credit will be deposited automatically into recipients’ MyKad accounts starting Aug 31 this year.
The aid can be used at over 4,600 registered retail outlets nationwide to purchase essential goods. Any unused balance will expire on December 31, 2025.
Looking ahead, Lim highlighted that under the framework of the 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13), the government is currently evaluating a new EPF account restructuring proposal to ensure longer-lasting retirement savings for Malaysians.
Under this new structure, members reaching the minimum retirement age will have their EPF savings split into two components, namely a flexible savings account accessible at any time, and an income-based savings account disbursed periodically or monthly.
This new mechanism will not affect the existing withdrawal rights of current members and will only apply to new contributors after its implementation. Existing members may also opt in voluntarily.
“This initiative aims to strike a balance between flexibility and long-term financial security for retirees,” Lim said.
As the nation prepares to mark another year of independence, Malaysians are called upon to stand united and honour the values that have shaped the country: respect, solidarity, and a shared vision for a better future.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix courtesy of YB Lim Hui Ying’s office