Calling on the people to maintain unity in defending the independence, Najib Abdul Razak has called on the people to join hands to propel the country to greater heights.

The prime minister urged the people to unite and work with the leaders to ensure the success of the country's transformation agenda.

pm open house 190812 najib He said after 55 years of independence, Malaysia was now considered a successful, increasingly rich, prosperous and strong country.

"Be aware that the independence knocked our door only once. Let us struggle to defend the independence firmly in every nook and corner of the country at all times.

"We should shore up our defence when our adversaries and the opposition try to put the country in disarray," he said when addressing more than 150,000 people at the "Merdeka 55: Janji Ditepati" (Promises Fulfilled) gathering in conjunction with the Merdeka Day celebration at the Bukit Jalil Stadium in Kuala Lumpur tonight.

Merdeka celebration in bukit jalil 2012 1 Present were the prime minister's wife Rosmah Mansor, Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin and his wife Norainee Abdul Rahman, cabinet ministers and BN leaders.

The country is led by leaders who are continuing the struggle laid down by he founders who fought for the independence, said Najib, adding that the leaders and the people were now working hand in hand to fulfil the independence or the third generation.

"So, do not let your guard down, do not be complacent even for a moment. ever turn your back on the struggle," he said.

Citing Malaysia's resounding success, Najib said the economy grew 5.4 percent in the second quarter of this year, the value of Bursa Malaysia had hit RM1,410 billion and Malaysia had become the world's third biggest Initial Public Offering (IPO) after the United States and China.

'Warriors who love independence'

Earlier, Information Communications and Culture Minister Rais Yatim described the people's support in facing all challenges as proof that they were 'warriors' who love independence and peace.

Merdeka celebration in bukit jalil 2012 3 "One mind, one direction, one spirit, one goal. That's why each seat in this stadium is filled by a 'warrior'," he said during his speech at the gathering.

Rais attributed the success of each government programme, including this year's dynamic Independence Day celebrations throughout the month, to these 'warriors'.

"This morning's parade successfully portrayed the National Key Results Area and tonight we display the young generation's independence spirit by supporting and appreciating the government.

"I wish to record my appreciation and gratitude to all parties, be they non-governmental or voluntary who participated throughout this Merdeka Day programme," Rais added.

- Bernama