No change in Merdeka Day theme, says Rais 

Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim

PETALING JAYA: The Government is sticking to this year’s Merdeka Day celebration theme despite criticism from certain quarters. Information, Communications and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Dr Rais Yatim said the theme 55 Tahun Merdeka, Janji Ditepati (55 Years of Independence, Promises Fulfilled) will not be changed.

“The theme is a decision made by the Cabinet. The ministry is standing by the theme and will not budge on this,” he said in a statement.

The Government’s decision to go ahead with the theme had received flak from certain quarters.

This prompted the Opposition to come up with their own theme of Sebangsa, Senegara, Sejiwa (One Nation, One Country, One Soul) and to hold a separate celebration.

Dr Rais attributed a series of reports on the matter by a newspaper as the work of the Opposition who were unhappy over the achievements and success of the Government.

“We in the ministry are responsible to translate the success of the nation for the past 55 years and to embrace it fully,” he said.

He said the Opposition were threatened by the theme as it was clear they did not have a track record.

“The promises made by the Government to the people have been achieved. In this Merdeka Day celebration, this should be appreciated and celebrated. The deeds of the past services have to remembered. Merdeka!” he said.