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RANAU: The Kikerz FT team from Kota Marudu won the football competition in conjunction with the Independence Day held at Kg Sinarut Baru Ranau near here recently.

Sinarut Team from Ranau emerged runners-up while third place was shared by Team Airport and Team Rapak from Ranau.

Present to give out the prizes in the competition was Ranau Member of Parliament Datuk Jonathan Yasin.

In his speech, Jonathan congratulated all the competing teams and Kg Sinarut Baru Youth Club for organising the soccer competition.

Meanwhile, he said the organisation of sports activities like this can certainly strengthen the friendship between participants.

“The participation of the players throughout the match shows that the youth and the community in general here always practice a healthy lifestyle.

“It also indirectly allows participants to show their talents and abilities, especially in football matches like this.

“Sports events like this can also unearth hidden talents that can be highlighted at a higher level, thus giving opportunities to those who want to be more active in the sports events they are involved in.

“This event also reduces to some extent, and can even prevent the community from all levels from falling into unwanted activities which are social symptoms,” he said.

Meanwhile, Jonathan added that coinciding with this year’s National Day theme which is ‘Malaysia Madani, Jiwa Merdeka’, the spirit of patriotism and self-identity shown by the freedom fighters should continue to be inherited by the people in aspects of life until now.

“By sticking to the theme of this celebration, let’s be determined to further strengthen the spirit of independence in every Malaysian, as we build a country that is not only free physically but also free in terms of thought, culture and economy.

“Let this programme remind us of the sacrifices and efforts of the heroes who have fought for the freedom and prosperity that we are enjoying today,” he said.

Jonathan also encouraged all the people in Ranau to participate in flying the Jalur Gemilang, coinciding with the call of One House One Jalur Gemilang.

“This provides an opportunity for all of us to show love and appreciation for the country, and this not only enlivens the atmosphere of Independence Month but also strengthens the bond as Malaysians.

“Remember that every small step we have taken to show our love for the country, such as flying the Jalur Gemilang, will have a big impact because Malaysia is our home, which we need to take care of,” he said.