The concern for one another and unity shown by the people during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in the country should be continued to create a more peaceful, harmonious Malaysia, says Deputy Minister of Communications and Multimedia Datuk Zahidi Zainul Abidin.

He said such good behaviour and values should not cease following the crisis, but instead become the ethos of every Malaysian.

Zahidi, who appeared as a panelist on the ‘Bicara Politikonomi’ programme aired on TV1 of Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) last night, also called on the people to appreciate and practice all five principles of the Rukun Negara.

"These noble values must be continued, including the government's own efforts in stimulating and inculcating the spirit of unity through various programmes.

"Various programmes can be enhanced via the mass media, for example, all local media can broadcast the ‘Negaraku’ anthem and reading of the Rukun Negara. This effort can indirectly remind and educate the people," he said.

Meanwhile, on the government's preparations for the National Day celebration on Aug 31, Zahidi said this year's celebration would be different, with ‘new normal’ practices.

Therefore, he said various programmes, especially involving the mass media, had been designed to invigorate the spirit of patriotism during the national month celebration, even though the country was still in the midst of curbing the spread of COVID-19.

-- BERNAMA