'Mencintailah Malaysia' Convoy Takes To The Road To Spread Patriotism

By Syed Iylia Hariz KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- "We must remember that our country will not have achieved independence without peace and unity". This is a reflection of the three-day 'Mencintailah Malaysia' (Love Malaysia) convoy participants' sentiment to spread the message of patriotism in conjunction with the National Day celebration. Organised by the Coalition of Youth and Sport NGOs with Gerakan Youth, the programme consists more than 20 vehicles with 100 personnel touring 30 places throughout states of Selangor, Perak, Pahang and federal capital Kuala Lumpur, giving out free Jalur Gemilang (national flag) to enliven the celebration of National Day. According to Gerakan Youth Chief, Tan Keng Liang, the programme which was introduced five years ago, were part of the movement's efforts to nurture the spirit of patriotism among local community. "Actually we need more programme like this, which promotes peace and unity. We need to remind them (Malaysians) the true meaning of Merdeka (Independence). "I acknowledged the right of anyone to assemble peacefully but it would be irresponsible if Bersih still proceed to hold their street demonstration in conjunction with the National Day celebration," he told Bernama after the flag off for the convoy, here, Saturday. Meanwhile Selangor Umno (United Malays National Organisation, Malaysia's largest political party) deputy chairman Mat Nadzari Ahmad Dahlan, who was also at the ceremony, voiced out his disapproval of the rally. "If in the olden days, people valued peace, why is today some people try to jeopardise the prevailing peace, especially when we are celebrating our National Day. "This should not have happened for someone who loves his or her country," he said. -- BERNAMA