As the 13th general election approaches, Deputy Information Communication and Culture Minister Maglin Dennis D'Cruz has made an impassioned plea to the people.

Choose a government with exemplary experience in managing the country, like the current government.

This, he said, would prevent disunity and crisis which could lead to the country's destruction.

"The existing government is such a government as it has implemented various development projects to take the country to its current position, besides nurturing unity among the people.

"For example, if we want to hire a driver, we must hire the one with a proven track record and experience. Otherwise, he will have problems in driving the car, locating places and will probably meet with accidents.

"The same rule applies to our country. We must choose a prime minister who has experience in running the country.

"Don't just choose an inexperienced individual who will only lead to the country's destruction," D'Cruz told reporters after opening the final round of the 1Malaysia National Oratory Competition 2012 at the Port Dickson Polytechnic today.

He said, today's society, especially the younger generation, might not understand and therefore, should always be reminded of the importance of an experienced government to run the country.

"That is why, the ministry has been implementing various programmes to tell and remind the people, especially the younger generation, on the matter," he said.

Don't use ‘bahasa rojak'

On another development, the deputy minister reminded all radio and television stations not to use 'bahasa rojak' or adulterated language in their programmes.

"They have to use the correct language. If they want to use the Malay language, everything must be in Malay, if English, then everything must be in English. The same rules apply for Mandarin and Tamil. Don't confuse our children with adulterated language," he said.

Meanwhile, Martin Dinil, of Sarawak, emerged national champion of the 1Malaysia Oratory Competition, leaving Samila Ooi Ling Ling, from Penang, in second place, and Negeri Sembilan's M Malarvili as second runner-up.

Fifteen non-Malay finalists contested in the competition which was aimed at improving the use of Malay language among non-Malay speakers, besides strengthening unity among the multi-racial people in the country.

- Bernama