IMPART GREATNESS OF MALAY EMPIRE TO YOUNG PEOPLE - MINISTER

KUALA LUMPUR (Bernama) - The greatness of the Malay ancient empire
and culture should be imparted to young people in efforts to produce resilient
individuals, said Information Communication and Culture Minister Dr
Rais Yatim.

He said young people, including the Malays, must have a strong character in
the face of challenges like their forefathers in the previous civilization.

The nation will be crushed and destroyed if modern life produces a
generation of weaklings, he said at a dinner in honour of the Jawi Heritage
Expedition which had completed its tour of seven Asean countries and China here
tonight.

His text of speech was read by Information Communication and Culture
Ministry's Music Division secretary Salehuddin Md Salleh.

"Awareness on the greatness of the Malay will go a long way in building a
strong and resilient young people who are resolute to come to the defence of the
country from threats to its sovereignty," he said.

On that expedition, he said it kept in steps with the ministry's
responsibility in upholding heritage and culture.

The 10,000km expedition trailed the Malay heritage in Thailand, Cambodia,
Vietnam, Laos, China and Myanmar besides Malaysia for 25 days from May 24.