KUCHING: Young Malaysians must understand the country’s history and appreciate the sacrifices of previous generations while rejecting corruption and practices that could undermine national unity.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said three major threats that could destroy a country were communism, communalism and corruption.
He said while communism had once posed a serious security threat through armed movements, killings and disruptions to public peace, communalism and corruption remained issues that society must guard against.
“Although the threat of communism has been overcome, we must remain vigilant against anything that can threaten unity, including communalism,” he said at the JIWA@Komuniti National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) 2026 programme at Politeknik Kuching here today.
“Young people had an important role in preserving the history and values that had shaped Malaysia.
“It becomes a threat when a person prioritises his or her own community to the extent of looking down on or oppressing others,” he said.
Fahmi also reminded leaders and those entrusted with public responsibilities to uphold integrity and never abuse the trust placed in them.
“As a leader, I understand today that holding a position is a trust. It is a responsibility given to us to do good, and we must never betray that trust,” he said.
He said Malaysia’s formation was unique as it was achieved through consensus and negotiations, unlike some countries that attained independence through conflict or armed struggle.
He said this was essential to ensure the country continued to enjoy peace, unity and progress in the years ahead.
