Penang: Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib credits his deep love for the nation and strong sense of identity to his formative years growing up in the austere pre-independence era. Born in the historic town of Pasir Salak, Perak, 84-year-old Tun Ramli looked back on his childhood under colonial rule, saying those pre-independence experiences became a crucial foundation in shaping his vision and leadership.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, despite the hardships that followed the Japanese occupation, Tun Ramli remembered his village life as being rich in Malay traditions and values, and credited his parents with instilling discipline and the virtue of simplicity from an early age. He reflected on the significance of his birthplace, Pasir Salak, known for the killing of Perak's first British Resident, J.W.W. Birch, by Malay warriors, marking a pivotal moment in the struggle against colonial rule.

Tun Ramli shared memories of his grandmother teaching him the importance of valuing food, a lesson learned through a simple admonition about wasting rice. He also recounted the scarcity of food during the Japanese occupation, recalling meals consisting of rice with bananas, cassava, and vegetables, and sometimes just boiled cassava.

Having lived through colonial rule, independence, and development, Tun Ramli urged the younger generation to remember history and appreciate the freedom they enjoy today. He advised young people to nurture patriotism and unity, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding peace and social justice in ensuring a quality life.

On Malaysia Day 2025 in Penang, Tun Ramli described the celebrations as a symbol of unity among the races in Sabah, Sarawak, and the Peninsula. He expressed gratitude to the federal government for choosing Penang as the host, highlighting its cultural diversity, history, and unity.

Malaysia Day 2025, themed 'Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni', will feature various activities at the PICCA Convention Centre@Arena Butterworth on September 16. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will officiate the event, attended by Tun Ramli and other prominent leaders, marking a significant celebration of national unity.

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced on June 11 that this year's Malaysia Day celebrations would take place in Penang, maintaining the tradition of rotating the venue annually between Sabah, Sarawak, and Peninsular Malaysia.