Let all Malaysians celebrate the 62nd National Day with resolve, confidence and commitment to build a New Malaysia of unity, freedom, justice, excellence and integrity to make Malaysia a top world-class nation

I call on Malaysians to celebrate the 62nd National Day with resolve, confidence and commitment to build a New Malaysia of unity, freedom, justice, excellence and integrity to make Malaysia a top world-class nation.

Malaysians took a historic decision 15 months ago in the 14th General Election on May 9, 2018 to peacefully and democratically transfer power in Putrajaya after six decades, which surprised and shocked not only Malaysians but the world, and now we are in the very challenging task of building a New Malaysia through democratic and not by revolutionary means.

This is a national mission which will take more one general election cycle to complete as a New Malaysia cannot be established overnight.

Recently, fissiparous and centrifugal forces seem to have dominated developments in the country causing dismay, division and disunity.

On the eve of 62nd National Day celebrations, let Malaysians take ownership of the great mission to build a New Malaysia of unity, freedom, justice, excellence and integrity to catapult Malaysia to the ranking of a top world-class nation.

Let us be reminded and refreshed by the five pillar-promises of the Pakatan Harapan in the 14th General Elections Manifesto, viz:

• Reduce the people’s burden.
• Institutional and political reforms.
• Spur sustainable and equitable economic growth.
• Restore Sabah and Sarawak to the status accorded in Malaysia Agreement 1963.
• Create a Malaysia that is inclusive, moderate and respected globally.

Let these five pillar-promises be our lodestar to build a New Malaysia in the 62nd National Day Month from August 16 to Sept. 16, which marks the 56th Malaysia Day celebrations.