August 31, 2019 will usher in another important milestone for Malaysians – the 62nd anniversary of our national day. My sincerest congratulations to everyone!

Yet, Malaysia may not even have existed today, were it not for the sacrifices of our founding fathers. Thus, let us not forget and take for granted what they have selflessly fought for us. Their dedication have ensured that we are able to chart our own path of unity, prosperity and development, free from outside interferences. We can never thank them enough. Thus, we owe it to our heroes to ensure that this freedom, stability and progress remain. This is the ultimate responsibility of every Malaysian.

Throughout the years, Malaysia has developed and prospered through the sheer hard work and dedication of its people, both at home and abroad.

Malaysians who are plying their trade in Cambodia have been equally exemplary - shining a positive light on our beloved country by showcasing their industriousness, loyalty, and their never-say-die attitude.

However, we can all agree that our achievements should not end here.

The trajectory of our progress could be further increased by improving efficiency, limiting wastage and above all, eliminating corruption. Therefore, as our country welcomes a new era of governance, the theme for this year’s National Day celebration - Sayangi Malaysiaku: Malaysia Bersih (Love Our Malaysia: A Clean Malaysia) - is apt and holds special significance. In line with this, I call on my fellow Malaysians here, as ambassadors of our country’s good image, to ensure the highest level of integrity in your respective fields of endeavour.

My fellow Malaysians, if everything we do is in the spirit of working for the glory of our dear country, for the divinity of Malaysia, if we do it to rid our countrymen of poverty, if we do it to properly weave our social fabric, if we discharge our duties with feelings towards the country, then the achievements will be much more.

This will further propel our great country forward. With Sayangi Malaysiaku: Malaysia Bersih ingrained in our hearts and minds, it will help us as a nation.

We should have this confidence that with sacrifice and hard work and a resolve to do something, we will get the necessary resources and the ability to do it, and big transformation will happen. Then our resolve will convert into accomplishments.

As we celebrate this auspicious occasion, I also wish to take this opportunity to convey our profound appreciation to our Cambodian friends – our ASEAN brothers, with whom we have maintained excellent relations.

Our people have deep and meaningful historical linkages in politics, economics, religion and culture that predates the establishment of Malaysia-Cambodia diplomatic relations in 1957.

Malaysians were among the first to invest in Cambodia and we have been together through the good and bad times.

Today, Malaysia is the fourth largest investor in this vibrant Kingdom. I believe that our strong bond of friendship will see Malaysia jump to first place in the coming years. Let’s continue to strive forward together in elevating bilateral relations to even greater heights!

To my dear countrymen, I convey my very best wishes. We are all the sons and daughters of Malaysia. This is the bond that unites us. Let us always remember that unity is our fundamental strength as a people and as a nation.

May we continue to work together in peace and harmony, and with utmost sincerity and undivided devotion, for the continued prosperity of our beloved nation.

Download: Malaysia 62nd National Day Special Supplement