MERDEKA celebrations this year will be more meaningful as the people have saved Malaysia from kleptocracy, said Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad. 

He described the victory against kleptocracy as “extraordinary” because the people were bold enough to save themselves despite facing threats. 

The result was an unexpected victory, one that the few countries had achieved without bloodshed or riots, the prime minister said. 

Because of this, he said Malaysians must celebrate by flying the Jalur Gemilang everywhere.

“Fly the national flag on your cars, in your homes, offices, streets and even the sea,” Dr Mahathir said at the launch of the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang 2018 campaign in Penang tonight. 

The launch was witnessed by some 30,000 people and was broadcast live on RTM. 

Dr Mahathir also said the theme year, “Sayangi Malaysiaku” (Love my Malaysia), was spot on.

He said Malaysia was celebrating a “double independence” – freedom from being colonised and freedom from kleptocracy and rule by iron first (kuku besi).

He said it was out of love for Malaysia that the people rescued their country from kleptocracy.

“It is true we are burdened with many problems due to the abuses of the former government. We have heaps of debt, a broken government machinery, poverty and decrease in trade and business.

“We will need a lot of time to heal the country but with the people’s support, the government will be able to overcome the problems.”

More than 30,000 people attended the three-day celebration at Padang Kota Lama that began yesterday and ends tomorrow. 

The PH chairman then unveiled the Jalur Gemilang and flagged off a convoy of 20 vehicles and 40 motorcycle riders who will travel the country to promote Merdeka and Malaysia Day.

Multimedia and Communications Minister Gobind Singh Deo said that today was a historic day because, after a long hiatus, one of the most significant national events of the 2018 calendar was being held in Penang.

“Penang has long been looking forward to this opportunity. 

“In addition, today has recorded another historic fact as, for the first time, we are celebrating Merdeka Day under the leadership of the new government, Pakatan Harapan,” he said.

Gobind said that Malaysia’s success was based on peace, well-being, solidarity, loyalty to the Agong and state, a spirit of tolerance and patriotism.

“The Pakatan Harapan government’s approach is to ensure that all people are involved and there is transparency and openness in the government as a new leadership will make our country glorious and respected internationally.”

Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said that he strongly hopes that such an event will inspire a spirit of patriotism and respect for independence among Malaysians.

“As Malaysians, we need to be grateful and feel lucky because being a sovereign and independent nation, we can live in a harmonious, safe and prosperous country.”

Chow also said that since being an opposition state from 2008, Penang had not had such an event here, despite having all the conveniences and infrastructure for such a function.

“Dr Mahathir choosing to launch this event here is very meaningful for all Penangites.

“We also hope that the PH government will consider continuing its support of the state by providing extra allocation.” – August 4, 2018.