Ministers show patriotism, call for unity on social media
Cabinet ministers used National Day to urge Malaysians to reinforce unity and patriotism across social media, marking the 69th anniversary with calls for collective responsibility.
Source: The Star Malaysia · August 30, 2026 at 10:30 PM · AI-assisted report
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KUALA LUMPUR, 31 AUGUST 2026 —
Cabinet ministers used National Day to urge Malaysians to reinforce unity and patriotism across social media, marking the 69th anniversary with calls for collective responsibility.
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Ministers took to Facebook, X and Instagram on Aug 31 to highlight the sacrifices of past generations and to frame national sovereignty as a shared trust that must be defended. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof posted an eight-minute video on his Facebook account featuring veteran actor Datuk Jalaluddin Hassan as a grandfather speaking to his grandchild about sacrifice, unity and duty to the nation. Fadillah added a personal address in the clip.
“Malaysia belongs to all of us,” he said. “Guard its sovereignty, respect its differences and strengthen the spirit of togetherness so that our country continues to shine on the world stage. Come, let us kindle the sense of love, responsibility and loyalty to the homeland. Wave the Jalur Gemilang with great pride.”
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the unity government would continue to ensure every policy, allocation and decision is anchored on the genuine needs of the people. He described the 2026 National Day Perdana Address as proof the government listens to society’s pulse.
National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said independence must be filled with the aspiration to build a strong nation-state that guarantees a harmonious future. He said nation-building does not require Malaysians to erase their languages, cultures, religions or origins. “We must build a greater shared identity above all differences – the identity as Malaysians,” he said. “The true strength of a country lies in the trust among its people.”
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said defending national sovereignty requires the involvement of all citizens, not just the armed forces. Under the Total Defence (Hanruh) framework, he said every individual plays a role in maintaining public order without taking up arms.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said national well-being stems from continuously preserved harmony, citing the National Day theme “Malaysia Madani: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati.” He said every citizen must respect the law, appreciate differences and preserve unity to safeguard security, stability and prosperity.
Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan said diversity is the strength that unites Malaysia into a single family. He said the spirit of togetherness, hard work and love for the homeland would lead the country toward a more glorious future.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali described independence as a major trust demanding the current generation defend peace and preserve harmony across diverse backgrounds.