Malaysians are urged to set aside their political and ideological differences and unite in celebrating National Day.

Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak said the people must have the conviction that the country meant everything to them.

"We celebrate National Day to show that we are united; when we have the conviction that the country means everything to us, we can move forward," he told reporters after the full rehearsal at Dataran Merdeka here today.

National Day with this year's theme, 'Sehati Sejiwa' (One Heart, One Soul) is celebrated annually on Aug 31 nationwide, and centrally at Dataran Merdeka.

More that 10,000 participants from government and private agencies, security forces and students will be involved in the activities to mark the grand occasion.

Meanwhile, Salleh told reporters after visiting the National Day media centre that he was satisfied with the preparations and full dress rehearsal for the celebration.

"The parade and performances portray Malaysia as it really is, a diversity of races from different regions uniting as one nation. In fact, the involvement of the young generation shows the love they have for the country," he said.

On the illegal Bersih 4 rally in Dataran Merdeka and its vicinity, he hoped it would not disrupt the national day celebration.

"They should appropriately do it elsewhere but they have chosen dates that are so close to the national day. Hence why certain roads have to be closed, for the safety of National Day participants," he said.

He said the illegal rally could also potentially disrupt the weekend activities of the community and foreign visitors, as well as impact adversely on business in the affected areas.