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Kota Kinabalu: The President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Malaysia (Huazong), Tan Sri T.C. Goh, called on the government to incorporate a detailed account of Malaysia’s formation on September 16 into the national history curriculum and school textbooks.

Goh said this move would provide Malaysians, particularly the younger generation, with a deeper understanding of the nation’s formation, including the significant role played by East Malaysia.

Goh believes that fostering such awareness is key to realising the true spirit of “East and West, One Malaysia.”

He said beyond the annual National Day on August 31, there are other key dates that hold special significance, particularly for the people of East Malaysia.

These include Sabah Day on August 31, Sarawak Day on July 22, and Malaysia Day on September 16.

Each of these dates plays a crucial role in the country’s history.

Goh, who the President of the Federation of Chinese Associations Sabah (FCAS), said this at the Malaysia Day Celebration 2024 at Padang Merdeka. 

This year’s celebration, organized by the State Government in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Environment of Sabah, along with the Federal Ministry of Communications.

The event was attended by distinguished guests including Head of State, Tun Juhar Mahiruddin, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Haji Hajiji Noor, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, and several federal and state ministers, political leaders, and other prominent figures, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

Goh said he fully supports Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s remarks during the celebration, in which he stressed the importance of understanding Malaysia’s nation-building history and the spirit of its founding leaders. 

The Prime Minister called for national unity in driving Malaysia’s development and progress.

He said the Prime Minister’s call should be embraced by all Malaysians, particularly by government departments and agencies.

“This should be implemented comprehensively, with measures such as integrating this knowledge into school textbooks to foster a deeper understanding of national history and inspire patriotism among citizens,” Goh said.

He said National Day, Malaysia Day, Sabah Day, and Sarawak Day are all key milestones in Malaysia’s history.

“These events must be accurately and comprehensively included in the national history curriculum and school textbooks, forming an essential part of the nation’s historical narrative,” he said.

Goh was also pleased to note that the FCAS delegation, alongside fellow Malaysians, celebrated Malaysia’s 61st anniversary (Malaysia Day), the 67th anniversary of the country’s independence (National Day), and the 61st anniversary of Sabah’s independence (Sabah Day) the previous evening.

“This is a momentous occasion, where we collectively express our aspirations for a prosperous Malaysia and the continued progress of Sabah,” Goh said.

He said the grand celebration showcased the strength of national unity and social harmony, injecting new momentum into the bright future of both Malaysia and Sabah, as well as East Malaysia.

Also in attendance were Goh’s wife, Joanne Ho, FCAS central committee members, and leaders and representatives of various FCAS affiliate organizations.