KUALA LUMPUR: Efforts to honour the deeds of statesmen, including Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman, need to be continued so that the young generation appreciates their contributions to fostering the spirit of unity and love for the country, say Malaysians.
Elderly visitors to the Commemoration of Statesman Tun Dr Ismail Al-Haj: Pillar of National Unity here said they still remember the man although it has been 50 years since he has passed away.
Yahya Mohamad Hassan, 62, from Penang, said he came to the event after watching an advertisement on it on Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) recently.
“Dr Ismail died in 1973 and from what I recall, he was known for his firm character. If he said A, then A will it be. His action against corrupt officers in the government was similar to what is done by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who is steadfast in wanting to eliminate corruption.
“When he (Dr Ismail) died, many mourned his passing,” he added, reported Bernama.
Yesterday’s event, which was held at Dataran Merdeka, showcased three main segments, namely the wall of memories displaying photos, speech texts, Dr Ismail’s apparel and personal collection, as well as traditional performances including the rebab, ghazal and silat.
Another visitor, J. Lawrence, 61, said the programme was able to foster a spirit of unity and create a sense of love for the country.
“Tun Dr Ismail’s history began when I was still very young and what I remember was that he was a deputy prime minister and was very successful in uniting the people, especially after independence,” said the retiree.
Hanis Nasuha Hamdan, 26, said the programme provides an opportunity for the people young and old to know more about the statesman and his contributions to the country.
“This programme is good as people will be able to remember and appreciate the services of the country’s statesmen. A programme like this should be held every year to get the young generation to know more about the country’s history,” he said.
Shara Shalom Johnny, 21, a student from Sarawak, was also at Dataran Merdeka with her friends to see the exhibits on display.
“Activities or programmes like these should be held to fuel the patriotic spirit among the young people,” she said.
Wan Afarihaa Ahmad, 14, a student, said she was at the event to commemorate Dr Ismail as it was part of the itinerary for her school trip.
“I don’t know much about this statesman but a programme like this is interesting to me as I can learn more about the country’s history, and History is my favourite subject in school,” she said.
Another student, Defnie Liew Hin Yee, 18, agreed with Wan Afarihaa for such a programme to be held continuously because it can help to nurture the love for the country and forge closer ties among the people of various races in the country.
