Penang launches Merdeka campaign

GEORGE TOWN: A crimson fire engine stood out among the roughly 40 vehicles that took part in the Kembara Merdeka and Jalur Gemilang 2023 convoy at the Esplanade.

A sea of Jalur Gemilang could also be seen being waved by participants here as the state launched the National Month and Fly Jalur Gemilang 2023 campaign yesterday.

The convoy, which will tour the country in conjunction with the Merdeka month celebration, was on the Penang leg of its tour.

Themed ‘Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan Penuhi Harapan’, the convoy, led by the Penang Island City Council team, was flagged off at City Hall as they then made their way to its next checkpoint in the state.

The convoy included the state police, the state Civil Defence Force, volunteers and even a motorcycle club.

The celebrations further saw 21 state departments, 19 Federal departments, 11 state agencies, and 10 Federal agencies involved in the Jalur Gemilang presentation ceremony, symbolising the start of the National Month campaign.

Caretaker chief minister Chow Kon Yeow, who flagged off the convoy, said this year’s event has special significance as it marked the first time Malaysians celebrate the Merdeka month under the banner of the unity government and Malaysia Madani.

“Over the past few years, our country has experienced its fair share of instability, testing the resilience of the people and the nation as a whole.

“This celebration holds great importance in conveying a clear message to ignite patriotism among the people.

“We believe that unity in diversity, which is the aspiration of the chosen theme, will drive our determination and commitment to develop our state and country with love.

“We should take pride in our Jalur Gemilang wherever we are,” he said.

The Kembara Merdeka and Jalur Gemilang 2023 convoy began in Ipoh on July 16 and will cover some 3,347km before ending at Dataran Putrajaya on Aug 31, in time for the National Day celebration.

The convoy will stop at 132 checkpoints (66 in the peninsula, and 66 in Sabah and Sarawak) for the ceremonial handover of the Jalur Gemilang at each location.