By Jaythaleela K
MIRI, Sept 13: It is crucial for the young generation today to remember the struggles of past generations to achieve independence from the British colonial rules.
Telang Usan assemblyman Dennis Ngau said independence celebration is not just about hoisting the flags.
“They must remember the hardship and struggle of past generations in obtaining the independence. It was a long journey in nation building so that we, in the present, could enjoy what we have today,” he said when closing SMK Merbau independence carnival, here, today.
The 15th edition of the carnival, which started since July 22, was held in conjunction with the Merdeka month celebration.
Dennis reminded that back in those days (pre-independence), there were no freedom compared to what today’s generation has.
“You have the chance to get education, freedom to go anywhere and eat whatever you like, unlike those in the olden days,” he opined.
Dennis also stressed on the importance of instilling the national pride amongst the young generation, so that they would be able to cherish the meaning of independence.
He said the people of Sarawak are lucky, as they have not only one government that looks after them but two governments, the federal and state governments.
“Not only federal, the Sarawak government would render their assistance to schools to ensure their needs are fulfilled.
“Both governments meant to provide facilities and infrastructures to the people. Besides, it would be better to have ‘two engines’ to help accelerate ‘a boat’ (the country),” he said.
At the event , Dennis pledged a RM10,000 allocation from his minor rural project (MRP) grant to SMK Merbau’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).
School principal Jumari Hashim was present. SMK Merbau has some 3,000 students. — DayakDaily
