TAWAU - The roundabout at Chester Road, located in the heart of the city, is adorned with the Jalur Gemilang and flags representing every state. The decorations include illuminated decorative patterns of hibiscus, the moon, and stars, creating an atmosphere that resonates with the National Month and Malaysia Day celebrations in the area.
Tawau Chinese Chamber of Commerce president Chia Seong Fat said they were tasked by the Tawau Municipal Council (MPT) to decorate the roundabout. The installation work was completed within three weeks with a budget of almost RM20,000. "On behalf of all parties involved, including Borneo Entrepreneurs, I am delighted to participate in enhancing the National Month and Malaysia Day celebrations in Tawau. Let people experience this atmosphere of harmony and prosperity here.
"We should appreciate and value the independence that our ancestors and forefathers worked so hard for 66 years ago. Now, we are enjoying the fruits of their struggle and hard work, making it a better place for our future generations," he said to reporters after the unveiling ceremony of the Independence Day decorations at the Chester Road roundabout, officiated by Tawau Member of Parliament Lo Su Fui, last night.
Chester Road is renowned for the Chester Night Market, where a variety of goods including clothing, jewellery, and food are sold. It operates every Friday and Saturday night.
Meanwhile, Lo hoped the Tawau residents would proudly fly the Jalur Gemilang throughout the National Month as a symbol of their patriotism.
MPT president Joseph Pang said they issued guidelines to businesses and offices in encouraging residents to start flying the Jalur Gemilang from Aug 1.
Tanjung Batu resident Arliza Michael, 40, expressed her hope for local authorities to organise more National Month programmes in the future including parades.
"The initiative to adorn Chester Roundabout adds vibrancy to the Tawau district. If not it would certainly be dull after the pandemic," she added.
A resident of Taman Semarak, Wirmasusanti Mahtat Hams, 36, said that the decorations would help raise public awareness about the National Month celebrations and the campaign to hoist the Jalur Gemilang.
"I've displayed the Jalur Gemilang at my house too, as fostering this patriotic spirit should begin within our own homes, particularly since we have the opportunity to educate children," she added. - BERNAMA