Love the country and appreciate the value of true patriotism

It is essential for Malaysians to have the spirit of the truest patriotism, one who loves the country and will do whatever it takes, whether it is related to a perception, belief or faith, in order to defend the nation.
In the context of Malaysia having a multi-racial society, it is very important for the people to have a sense of patriotism, take pride in being Malaysians and be loyal to the country.
It is equally important too for us to understand the country’s administration system, have a sense of togetherness, understanding, loyalty and respect to the leader and the royal institution, be a disciplined citizen and uphold the country’s good name.
According to former Inspector General of Police, Tan Sri Musa Hassan, if the people loved their country, they must perform their duties to help better the country’s productivity by educating their children to be the best kind of citizens and in the process, help to produce leaders of the future.
“Patriotism lives with life-long dedication and sacrifice for the country. It can create a sense of belonging that can further unite the people.
“We want to see the people remained united and respectful of one another, and live in peace,” he said.
He added that the celebration of the country’s independence was held every year and the symbolic gesture to mark the auspicious day was by flying the flag and singing patriotic songs but this did not necessarily translated into having the spirit of patriotism.
“We need to be bold when expressing opinions or contributing ideas, and be sincere so it will lead to good things.
“Also, in our efforts to gain a deeper understanding on the meaning of independence, it demands one to learn about the country’s history,” he said.
According to International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS) Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Associate Professor Dr. Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil, the Federal Constitution was a document that balanced the position of the Bumiputras and other minorities.
“The secret is compromise - that is the give and take approach, free from ideology and religious extremism. This is the real purpose and intent of those who drawn up the Constitution. 
“Our forefathers want each individual in Malaysia to be able to enjoy a life of peace, calm and tranquillity.
“They want to see all races from various religious and ethnic backgrounds to each have their pieces of the pie.
“Acceptance of the social contract and high tolerance by the three biggest ethnics as well as other ethnics in Sabah and Sarawak essentially stemmed from the togetherness approach that has been long inherent in the Federal Constitution,” he added.
Tan Sri Musa Hassan and Associate Professor Dr. Mohamed Azam Mohamed Adil were invited to speak at a programme called ‘Program Bicara Cendekiawan Mulia’ (Talks by Distinguished Scholars) organised by the Office of the Vice-Chancellor and UMP Academics Staff Association (PAKAD).
The programme titled, ‘Malaysia Baharu: Patrotisme Tulen atau Retorik Politik?” (The New Malaysia: True Patriotism or Political Rhetoric” was moderated by Dr. Munira Abdul Razak, a lecturer at the Centre of Human Sciences.
It was held at Astaka Hall, UMP Gambang Campus on August 28, 2019.
Also present were UMP Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ir. Dr. Wan Azhar Wan Yusoff and Pahang Deputy Chief of Police, Dato’ Mohd. Yusri Hassan Basri.