Mersing: Patriotism meets creativity at the Mersing Police headquarters, where 1,400 used mineral water bottles have been given a colourful second life as a giant Jalur Gemilang sculpture at the entrance to the housing complex in Jalan Jemaluang here.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, District police chief Supt Abdul Razak Abdullah Sani stated that the sculpture was created in stages with the participation of about 200 residents of the housing complex, including police personnel and their family members. The initiative not only helped foster patriotism among personnel and the local community, but also supported efforts to promote environmental sustainability.
'The installation took two days and was completed on Aug 17. It is more than just a replica; it symbolises teamwork, unity and recycling efforts in support of environmental sustainability,' Abdul Razak told Bernama when met here today. The National Month celebration, which coincides with the school holidays, is expected to attract more tourists to the sustainable tourism district.
Meanwhile, 116 personnel, including members of the Police Family Association (PERKEP), participated in a hike up Mount Arong on Sunday, flying 69 Jalur Gemilang flags at the summit. Abdul Razak mentioned that the programme, held for the second time after being launched in 2024, aimed to instil patriotism while fostering teamwork and perseverance among participants.
'Some of the participants are due to retire next year, but they still made the effort to reach the summit and join the others in flying the Jalur Gemilang at the peak of Mount Arong,' he added. The programme also aimed to promote Mount Arong as one of the district's eco-tourism destinations while promoting safe hiking practices.
Additionally, the number '69' was formed at the compound of the Mersing Police headquarters yesterday and captured by drone as a symbolic gesture to mark the country's 69th independence anniversary. This formation has been a tradition since 2023.
Meanwhile, Nur Ain Salleh, 34, a resident of Anggerik Block at the housing complex, said preparations to decorate the residential area for the National Month celebration began early this month. 'Decorating the housing area is something we do every year, but when we found out there was a competition this year, we became even more enthusiastic,' said Nur Ain, who has lived in the housing complex for 11 years.