Over 3000 people gathered at Stadium Indera Mulia, Ipoh on Thursday, September 15 to pre-celebrate Malaysia Day which fell on Friday, September 16.
The event, which began at 8pm, was officiated by the Executive Councillor for Rural Development, Agriculture, Trade and Information, Dato’ Saarani Mohamad who represented Menteri Besar, Dato’ Seri DiRaja Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.
Among the dignitaries present were the Executive Councillor for Arts, Culture, Tourism, Communication and Multimedia, Dato’ Nolee Ashilin and senior government officials.
Saarani read the MB’s introductory speech. In it Zambry reminded Perakeans on the importance of maintaining cordial relationship among the races in order ensure peace and harmony.
“Once we start doubting one another we’re no longer a united nation anymore. What’s the point of being Malaysians then?” he said. “When our founding fathers lowered the Union Jack and raised the Jalur Gemilang what they had in mind was a peaceful Malaysia. Yet some like to complicate things and create trouble. Had our founding fathers been around today they would be aghast,” he lamented.
Zambry reminded Perakeans to be responsible and not to take peace for granted.
Songs and dances by guest artistes and cultural groups were the highlights of the day. The crowd was thrilled to be part of the celebration.
Luqman
