Rukun Negara 'revision' a necessity

KUANTAN, Sept 3 -- Events relating to the Rukun Negara should be organised annually to serve as ‘revision’ for all Malaysians to strengthen the spirit of unity in a plural society.

Pahang Public Library Management Services Division head Murni Wizana Abd Ghani said the Rukun Negara should serve as the bonding element for all Malaysians, who currently face many social problems.

“Many people have forgotten the principles of Rukun Negara, especially those who have left school, where the Rukun Negara pledge was usually recited during assemblies.

“For me, programmes with Rukun Negara content are a necessity for Malaysians to remember how racial unity helped the country to obtain independence and rise again after the May 13, 1969 incident,” she said.

Murni Wizana was speaking to reporters after the 50th Rukun Negara anniversary celebration roadshow by the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) at the Pahang Public Library here, today.

It was organised by the National Unity Ministry in collaboration with the Communications and Multimedia Ministry.

Meanwhile, Chenor-born Mohd Shahrul Rezza Mohd Zahabar, 27, said it was disappointing to find out that some adults did not know the five Rukun Negara principles when asked spontaneously, despite them being taught from a young age.

“The principles should be the core of people's lives. If we practise them properly, it will definitely help us to live in harmony because we will respect each other.

“This is in line with the first principle of the Rukun Negara, in which every religion teaches its followers to be kind to others, and the final principle which emphasises good behaviour and morality,” he said.

His views were echoed by assistant librarian Nur Syamilla Sahar, 32, who said the understanding of the five tenets of Rukun Negara would enable the people to live in peace by upholding the rule of law.

In fact, she said, the Rukun Negara also stressed on respect and loyalty to the king, which means cases such as insulting the royal institution should not be happening.

“I hope the Rukun Negara will be more than just a pledge that we read. All Malaysians, regardless of age and background, must embrace every principle in their daily lives,” she said.

-- BERNAMA