'Leaders must give fair advice, avoid slander' - Hamzah

SHAH ALAM - Leaders should only give advice and refrain from attempting to slander, mainly due to political differences.

Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin said that this year's National Day celebration must be imbued with a noble spirit without holding grudges or spreading slander and oppression against any leaders or citizens.

He, who is also the Perikatan Nasional (PN) secretary-general, emphasised that the coalition will oppose any form of injustice in this beloved nation.

"PN is firm in its stance that no one should attempt to sow slander, ignite animosity in conflicts, sow discord, or commit oppression that contradicts the values of independence.

"Advice or words that are tainted with self-interest will only erode the people's respect for us.

"Do not only excel in rhetoric without taking meaningful actions for the betterment of our nation's future," he stated in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

Expanding on his point, Hamzah said that independence is an important gift and teaches the citizens to stand on their own two feet.

He believes that independence also teaches the nation to continue growing and maturing according to its own standards.

"Tomorrow, Aug 31, is not just a sacred date for the Malaysian nation as we celebrate the 66th National Day, but it is also a reflection of solidarity from Arau to Tanjung Piai in the Peninsula and from Kudat to the far reaches of Ulu Lachau in Sabah and Sarawak.

"Let us together build this nation into one that is just, respected, and cherished by all. Happy National Day to all Malaysians," he concluded.