Youth Must Understand History and Reject Threats to Unity, Says Fahmi

KUCHING, Sept 14 — Malaysia’s younger generation must understand the nation’s history, value the sacrifices of past generations in establishing a peaceful country, and firmly reject corruption that could undermine its future.

Speaking at the JIWA@Komuniti National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) 2026 programme at Politeknik Kuching today, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil stated that three major threats can destroy a country: communism, communalism, and corruption.

Fahmi noted that while communism had once posed a severe danger to national security through armed uprisings and violence, that threat was successfully overcome. However, he cautioned that society must remain vigilant against communalism and race-based prejudice.

“Although the threat of communism has been overcome, society must remain vigilant against anything that could undermine unity, including communalism… it can become a threat when someone puts their own race above others to the extent of looking down on or oppressing other races,” Fahmi said.

Highlighting leadership ethics, Fahmi stressed that holding public office is a trust that must not be compromised.

“As a leader, I now understand that holding a position is a trust. It is a responsibility and trust given to us to do good, and we must never betray that trust,” he added.

Fahmi also emphasized that Malaysia’s formation was unique because it was achieved through mutual consensus and negotiation rather than armed conflict. He called on youth to preserve the nation’s core values to ensure Malaysia remains peaceful, united, and progressive.

“Hence, the younger generation has an important role to play in ensuring that the history and values that shaped the country continue to be preserved so that Malaysia remains peaceful, united and progressive in the future,” he stated.

–NMT