Unity and Heritage Are Malaysia’s True Strengths: PM Anwar

UTTERWORTH, Sept 16 (VoM): Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim marked Malaysia Day with a dual call to action: honoring the nation’s historic struggle for independence while elevating the cultural heritage of silat as a unifying force for the younger generation.

Earlier in the day, Anwar joined over 10,000 members of various silat associations at Politeknik Seberang Perai under the banner of Pendekar MADANI. He emphasized that the legacy of the Malay civilization, particularly during the height of the Malacca Sultanate, was built not merely on power, but on knowledge, discipline, ethics, and technological advancement.

“Silat is not about arrogance or physical might alone. It is about discipline, respect, and noble character. That is the true strength of our heritage,” Anwar said, reflecting on his training under silat masters including the late Dato’ Meor Abdul Rahman, Ustaz Hanafi Ahmad, and Dato’ Dr. Raja Abdul Majid Raja Mat Isa.

In line with the government’s effort to preserve and promote the art, the Kerajaan MADANI has allocated RM2 million to coordinate silat organizations nationwide. The funds will be used to expand training in schools, polytechnics, universities, and other institutions of learning, with the goal of shaping a disciplined, ethical, and proud younger generation.

During the event, Anwar was also conferred the title of Imam Khalifah Agong “Sri Tri Buana Simanjakini Gangga Chula Sakti” by Pakndak Majid, a recognition he described as a symbol of the enduring legacy and brotherhood embedded in silat tradition.

Later, at the National Malaysia Day Celebration in Penang, Anwar called on Malaysians to remember the sacrifices of past leaders who fought for independence against colonial powers that drained the nation’s wealth and undermined its sovereignty.

“Our nation sought freedom from domination, exploitation, and humiliation. We must never forget why our forefathers fought for dignity and self-determination,” he said.

Anwar stressed that Malaysia’s true strength lies not only in its economy or policies, but in the unity of its people across race, religion, and culture.

“If we fail to safeguard this unity, no policy will hold meaning. Diversity is not our weakness; it is our strength,” he declared.

The Malaysia Day celebration was attended by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his wife, Toh Puan Raja Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah; Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof; Chief Minister of Penang Chow Kon Yeow; Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, representing Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg; and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya, representing Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.

@Voice of Malaysia news