The National Patriot Association (Patriot) wants this year's Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day to be celebrated with a new spirit as Malaysians sense a rebirth of their beloved nation.

Hence, Patriot wants to see this year’s event themed “Sayangi Malaysiaku” (Love Your Malaysia) to be celebrated in a carnival-like atmosphere with Malaysians coming out to show their love, kindness and compassion to their country and countrymen, and not so much of the military assets display as in the past.

“This Aug 31 and Sept 16 should be celebrated with a difference,” said the statement quoting Patriot president Brig Gen (Rtd) Mohamed Arshad Raji.

Patriots also called on the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia to quickly release the theme song 'Kita Punya Malaysia’ so that the people could learn to sing it soonest and the song should provide an uplifting spirit, feeling of patriotism and help foster national unity.

“Patriot also called Malaysians to show their patriotic spirit to fly the ‘Jalur Gemilang’ in their homes, offices and vehicles as it displays respect to uphold the Constitution and abide by our National principles as reflected in the 'Rukun Negara',” he said in a statement today.

Patriot will also distribute 5,000 pieces of Jalur Gemilang sponsored by their honorary member Lee Kim Yew.

Yesterday, Communications and Multimedia Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the National Day 2018 celebration next month would be held in Putrajaya while Sabah will host the national-level Malaysia Day 2018 celebration on Sept 16.

- Bernama