PATRIOTISM must be continuously nurtured among Malaysians for a united society, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said today.

He said it is important to create a strong nation which requires unity among communities of various races, religions and socio-economic backgrounds.

He urged Malaysians to celebrate Merdeka month by flying the Jalur Gemilang and taking part in the events.

“We are blessed to be part of the sovereign and independent Malaysians. Indeed, the blessing of independence should be appreciated.  We can live comfortably, harmoniously and prosperously and practice tolerance in establishing relations between races,” he said in his opening speech at the launch of the National Month at Sultan Azlan Shah Circle, Meru Raya, Ipoh, today.

The speech was read by Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof, who represented the prime minister.

Anwar said unity is a blessing and an important asset to the country.

He said it needs to be nurtured to safeguard the country’s independence, saying history shows that the greatness of an empire is not only dependent on the wisdom of its leadership but the spirit of the people.

Meanwhile, at the same event, Fadillah flagged off the Kembara Merdeka and Jalur Gemilang 2023 convoy which will tour the country in conjunction with Merdeka – Bernama, July, 2023.