Instilling the spirit of patriotism ...

Busy Jalan Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur was 'rocked' by the presence of red-shirted teams distributing the national flag -- Jalur Gemilang.
It was among five locations in the city where the flags were distributed to business premises and shoppers to celebrate the 52nd National Day.

The other places were Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, Jalan Brickfields, Jalan Petaling and Kampung Baru.
Heading the programme at Jalan Bukit Bintang was the Information, Communication and Culture Ministry Secretary-General Kamaruddin Siaraf.
Accompanying him were Bernama officers and staff led by Bernama General Manager Hasnul Hassan.About 1,200 large and hand-waving flags were given away.
Kamaruddin, who was very satisfied by the encouraging response from the people, hoped the initiative would raise awareness of the people to understand and appreciate the country's independence.
"I wish to thank (the) Pavilion (shopping centre) for contributing 1,000 flags to make the campaign a success.
"This is good cooperation between the government and the private sector," he said.

A Malaysian icon in unity …

He's a hero to many Malaysians. Long before the talk of 1Malaysia, he was 1Malaysia.
What impress people most is the fact that he can convey a message – simple yet strong and in a fun way too.

His work inspires Malaysians to look beyond race, creed and religion in fostering unity.
He’s been described a legend, brilliant and an icon in depicting Malaysians as we are.
Those who have been featured in his caricatures have a common thing to say in that it was an honour to be drawn by him.
He is Lat or Mohammad Noor Khalid -- Malaysia’s most lovable cartoonist.
"1Malaysia has always been with us. We’ve been living the 1Malaysia way as far as I can remember. We’ve always mixed with each other. Friendship was always on our minds. I remember cycling all the way to town every Saturday when I was a youngster to meet up with my friends of various races. Each could play a musical instrument and we got together to play as a band. Music and sports can bring people together. I’ll use that as a guide to continue my work," said Lat.
A collection of 60 of Lat’s original sketches, dating from 1974 up to now, showing some of the funny and quirky moments in Malaysian politics, sports, economy and life in general is being exhibited at a shopping centre in Kuala Lumpur.
Titled "Lat’s 1Malaysia Exhibition", it is on until August 31 at the east wing concourse of Bangsar Shopping Centre.
Former Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad opened the exhibition, saying it is timely as Malaysia celebrates its 52nd Independence Day.

"Lat has the talent to make fun of people and situations without annoying anyone. When he picks a character to draw, he draws the unique feature of the person. When Lat draws me, I immediately recognise it because of the big nose. Really, it’s not that big," he said to the roar of laughter from the guests.

*Pictures and text from New Straits Times