Berikut adalah ucapan Khairul Azwan Harun, Naib Ketua Pemuda UMNO Malaysia merangkap Timbalan Pengerusi Pemuda Barisan Nasional (BN) Malaysia ketika menghadiri program
'Pesta Perpaduan Pongal' anjuran Pemuda MIC Selangor di Ampang, semalam.
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| Azwan menerima cenderahati yang disampaikan oleh Sivarraajh Chandran, Ketua Pemuda MIC Kebangsaan di Ampang, Selangor. |
Firstly, I wish to thank Pemuda MIC Selangor, MIC Bahagian Ampang & Pemuda MIC Bahagian Ampang for hosting this event and bringing us all together.
Growing up in Malaysia, I learned that Pongal is mainly celebrated to convey appreciation for the Sun God in providing energy for our agriculture.
Beyond the defined meaning, i believe that Pongal provides us the opportunity to appreciate the good that we have in this country.
Oftentimes, we are too surrounded by bad news, tragedies, disasters and death. It can be tough to remember the good that this country has offered us, from security to education to the freedom of religion.
Recently, I wrote an article about the importance of inclusiveness. I noted that the late Tun Razak, our second Prime Minster had always outlined inclusiveness as an important factor for our nation-building. Tun Razak always believed that this nation could grow only if all its sons and daughters were given equal opportunities.
I am proud to say that this is the main focus that Pemuda UMNO has today, that all Pemuda organizations in Barisan Nasional are emphasizing. This is evident today.
I am proud that Pemuda MIC is also inclusive, that it includes everyone under its umbrella, that it listens to all its members. This is the only way we can grow today, it is the best way for us to comprehend the opinions of our diverse communities.
Good relations between the Malays and Tamil community today are not only beneficial for growth but also essential for the harmony of our nation. Exclusion and individualism or segregation of communities should never be on the agenda. In order for harmony to continue in this nation, we must always work together, invite each other, include one another.
Thank you again for having me today.
Selamat perayaan Pongal!
