On 31 August, we
commemorate and celebrate the freedom and Independence of Malaysia. We, as a nation, express our patriotism and
love towards our country by raising the Malaysian flag on our vehicles, our
buildings, homes and shopping malls and even along the streets!
We celebrate our
lndependence Day this year with the theme “Malaysia,
Sehati Sejiwa” (Single Minded Malaysia) to reflect the spirit of
solidarity, understanding, togetherness and humanity of all the people in the
country.
However, after 58 years of Independence today “we are witnessing many
distressing events in our country.” Presently we face political instability and
chaotic and economic deterioration.
Human rights, freedom of expression and the liberty of social media are
increasingly controlled by the authority.
It is the duty of every citizen including the
minorities, the migrants and refugees to defend the rights of humanity. With the many current issues such as the 1MDB
and depreciating currency, many of the rakyat
have lost their confidence in the ruling government. Furthermore, many are really “perturbed by the
religious extremism and intolerance of certain individuals and groups” which
create divisions and disunity.
The
opposition leaders, NGO groups, religious institutions and individuals are
challenging the present government for “fairness, transparency, accountability
and integrity” through various forms. As a nation, we must keep the spirit of solidarity,
understanding, togetherness, goodwill, and humanity among all races in this
multi-racial, multi-cultural and multi-religious society.
We, the Church should
respond to the Gospel invitation to be the “salt of the earth and the light of
the world,” (Mt 5: 13-14), to be “faithful” and to play a “rightful role” in
building up our nation. We must be led by the “teachings and direction of the
Church” and uphold our “spiritual and moral values,” in order to enhance peace
and harmony in our society.
Let us together pray for
our nation to be truly united and live in harmony.
“Selamat Hari Merdeka and
Hari Malaysia!”
(Adapted from
the Archbishop’s National Day Message)