Penang: Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow has called on the people of the state to use the National Month celebrations as an opportunity to strengthen unity and avoid any statements or actions that could undermine national harmony. He said National Month is a meaningful occasion for Malaysians to renew their commitment to the nation while fostering patriotism, solidarity, and a shared determination to drive the country's progress.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chow emphasized the significance of the National Month celebrations and the Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign. He mentioned that these events provide an opportunity for Malaysians to reaffirm their pride, strengthen unity, and renew their resolve to move the nation forward together. Chow shared these thoughts after launching the state-level National Month celebrations and the Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign at the Central Seberang Perai District and Land Office.

Chow urged all parties, including political leaders and organizations, to prioritize national unity and avoid making statements or taking actions that could question the people's loyalty to the nation. He stressed that Malaysia cannot afford any actions that threaten unity and should instead focus on strengthening solidarity and loyalty to the nation and the Monarch.

He encouraged Penangites to fly the national flag at their homes, businesses, offices, and vehicles throughout National Month as a visible expression of patriotism and national pride. Chow added that patriotism should be reflected in daily actions through integrity, unity preservation, and contributions to the development of the state and nation.

The Penang government, he stated, would continue to focus on development driven by innovation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, smart technology, and sustainability in line with the Penang2030 Vision. This effort aims to create high-value jobs and ensure economic growth benefits are shared by all.

Earlier, Chow presented the Jalur Gemilang to representatives of state, federal, and private sector agencies to symbolically launch the state-level National Month celebrations. He then flagged off the Penang State Jalur Gemilang Convoy, involving 18 participating agencies, which departed from the Central Seberang Perai District and Land Office and proceeded to the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Bridge.