PUTRAJAYA, The National Unity and Integration Department (JPNIN), in collaboration with Pertubuhan IKRAM Malaysia, has launched the Jelajah Belia Rukun Negara programme, which will travel across the country from this month until early 2025, involving 1,200 participants aged 18 to 30. The National Unity Ministry, in a statement, said the initiative aims to nurture the youth into embracing the principles of the Rukun Negara while recognising participants as Junior Ambassadors of Rukun Negara. The initiative follows the decision of the National Unity Advisory Council (MPPN) meeting on Feb 29, which approved the development and implementation of the Rukun Negara Appreciation Module in six state zones. The Jelajah Belia Rukun Negara programme focuses on two key objectives, namely enhancing literacy, understanding and appreciation of the Rukun Negara principles in daily life, and cultivating ideas, philosophy and understanding of the Rukun Negara as a unifying force among the youth. The ministry added that the theme 'Menjiwai Rukun Negara' (Embracing the Rukun Negara) reflects efforts to ensure that the essence and spirit of the Rukun Negara is embedded as a foundation for national pride and patriotism. Four main themes have been proposed for the Rukun Negara Appreciation Module, namely Why and How?, Embracing Diversity, Deep Understanding of Rukun Negara, and Building Character and Humanitarian Values. Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang said the aspirations and principles of the Rukun Negara must be deeply ingrained in the hearts of the youth to mould them into visionary Malaysians who appreciate peace and cultural diversity. 'By embracing the Rukun Negara, youth can play an active role in nation-building and foster a strong sense of patriotism,' he said. Source: BERNAMA News Agency