SEPT 16, 1963, was a momentous day in our nation’s history when Malaya, North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak and Singapore united to form the Federation of Malaysia.

       It has been 58 years since that significant occasion.

       Although Malaysia’s formation had been planned to coincide with National Day on Aug 31, the date was extended by two weeks to allow for referendums in other areas to be completed.

       Even with Singapore’s exit from the pact on Aug 9, 1965, these lands – Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak – complete a beautiful, multifaceted picture of people of many cultures, traditions and races, living in harmony and togetherness.

       Malaysia Day has been celebrated as a public holiday since 2010 to foster the Malaysian spirit as well as to remember efforts made by our founding fathers to secure independence from the British.

       This togetherness is especially evident now, during the Covid-19 pandemic, with people from all walks of life rising to the occasion to help their fellow man, neighbours in distress, foreigners without means of survival, the jobless and homeless as well as anyone in dire straits.

       Today, we honour all those who have stepped forward to do their part --- frontliners, volunteers, non-governmental organisations, businesses and individuals who persevered to make life better for others.

       Having compassion for others who are suffering has led many Malaysians to stick together in weathering the pandemic storm.

       So today, as we commemorate the day when a colourful, resilient, promising and beautiful nation was born, we stand tall over all we have achieved.

       Happy Malaysia Day!