KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30 — As Malaysia prepares to celebrate its 68th National Day tomorrow, Cabinet members shared their heartfelt greetings to all Malaysians via social media, expressing their hopes that this year’s celebrations will further strengthen the nation’s unity and sense of togetherness.
Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said independence is not just freedom from colonialism, but the freedom to build a fair, united, and compassionate nation rooted in unity.
“Unity is our strongest defence. Without it, no nation can endure and progress,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Dr Dzulkefly added that this year’s National Day theme, "Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni," calls on all Malaysians to reject prejudice, foster tolerance, and promote mutual care.
As the minister responsible for the nation's health, he said that independence means freedom from disease, fear of inaccessible healthcare, stigma, and the health disparities that hinder individual potential.
“We can take pride in physical and technological progress, but the true value of an independent country is when its people are healthy, prosperous and live with dignity,” Dr Dzulkefly said.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, following the Prime Minister’s National Day address, said the independence enjoyed today is the result of the sacrifices and struggles of many.
“As emphasised by the Prime Minister (Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim), efforts to divide the races must be firmly opposed. To achieve national prosperity and well-being, the people must cultivate unity and love for the country,” he said.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasised the importance of protecting independence and maintaining peace, assuring the ministry's commitment to ensuring the safety of the people.
Meanwhile, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na'im Mokhtar said independence means not only freedom from colonial rule but also from poverty.
“Zakat and wakaf are crucial tools in building a Madani social network so that no one is left behind,” he said.
Plantation and Commodities Minister Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani stated that National Day is not just a celebration, but a symbol of the sacrifices, struggles, and wisdom of past leaders and freedom fighters.
“Let us highlight our responsibility as citizens to defend this independence by strengthening unity and maintaining peace for the nation,” he said.
