Jalur Gemilang convoy brings patriotic spirit to Bintulu

BINTULU (Aug 26): The Malaysian Information Department (JaPen) brought excitement to the town with the Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang (KMJG) 2024 convoy.

Convoy vehicles were decorated with the Jalur Gemilang, as songs of patriotism filled the air from as early as 7am along the route.

This year’s activities featured special performances, including martial arts and crime-fighting demonstrations, a ‘fire cry’ by the Auxiliary Police and Fire Department, a symbolic flag planting, patriotic and cultural dances, a decorated car competition, and a marine show.

In his opening speech, Tanjong Batu assemblyman Johnny Pang said the National Month celebration is not solely to be enjoyed by the community, but also a remembrance to the sacrifices of the nation’s warriors who fought for independence from colonial ruling.

Meanwhile, JaPen Sarawak director Helmy Hamid said the ‘KMJG 2024 Bintulu Fun Ride’ from Tanjung Batu Beach to Bintulu Port totalled 184 participants, which included 25 vehicles and 100 cyclists from Komuniti Madani and non-governmental organisations, as well as three vehicles from Bintulu Port Holdings Berhad (BPHB).

“This programme demonstrates the collaborative commitment of the government and the unwavering support of the people, regardless of background, in expressing a patriotic spirit,” said Helmy during the symbolic flag-off ceremony of the KMJG 2024 convoy today.

He added that in connection with National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM), the theme ‘Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka’ had been chosen, reflecting the nation’s Madani agenda, which is the foundation of the nation’s prosperity and progress through six core values.

The KMJG convoy is one of the main activities held for HKHM, carrying the message of nationhood with symbolic flag handovers at each route stop.

The Sarawak-level National Month 2024 celebration was held at the Construction Industry Development Board convention centre on Aug 3, marking the countdown to the National Day celebration on Aug 31 in Sibu, followed by the state-level Malaysia Day celebration on Sept 16 in Sri Aman.

Among those present were BPHB chief operating officer Matshalleh Mohd Etli, Group corporate services head Maslihah Tioh, Group chief financial officer Daiana Luna Suip, and Samalaju Industrial Port Sdn Bhd chief operating officer Sufri Bohari.