PETRONAS Encourages Unity Amongst Malaysians With #tanahairku

KOTA KINABALU, 12 September 2015 – PETRONAS celebrates Malaysia Day with the launch of #tanahairku – an initiative aimed at promoting and strengthening social cohesion and unity in Malaysia. This initiative included the creation of two wall murals by local Sabahan artists which were revealed during the launch; each artwork showcasing the best of Malaysia, particularly Sabah’s unique cultural heritage. 

In conjunction with the upcoming Malaysia Day, PETRONAS presents the nation as a melting pot of cultures and traditions highlighting the common values that are shared among Malaysians. 

“PETRONAS is actively conducting its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in the areas of education, community well-being and environment. With the upcoming celebration of Malaysia Day, we are committed to conduct programmes which are in line with the government’s initiatives in strengthening the spirit of solidarity, understanding and tolerance among Malaysians,” said PETRONAS General Manager of Internal Communications, Khairuddin Jaafar.

“PETRONAS’ #tanahairku campaign serves as a subtle reminder to the younger generation about what makes Malaysia special. We use street art as a medium to reach out and stir conversations because creative expressions have the power to transform people’s behaviors. We hope that these artworks will do just that,” he added.

The third edition of #tanahairku covers three states – Sabah, Sarawak and Johor. Through this initiative, a total of 22 street artists have been commissioned to paint 10 selected walls in Kota Kinabalu, Kuching and Johor Bahru. 

In Kota Kinabalu, the two walls are located at Wisma Sabah on Jalan Haji Saman and Wisma Intiutama on Lorong Dewan.

In conjunction with the recent National Day celebration, PETRONAS also released its highly anticipated National and Malaysia Day 2015 web film titled ‘akrab’. Set in 1957, the film tells the story of three boys, who travelled from small town Ipoh to Kuala Lumpur to witness the symbolic ‘Laungan Merdeka’.  The 5-minute web film highlights the value of friendship and perseverance; two elements that contribute to unity in a multiracial community. 

In addition to #tanahairku and ‘akrab’, PETRONAS also launched ‘Misi #tanahairku’ in August. The ‘mission’ had Malaysian personality, Razif Hashim, embarking on a nationwide journey, to gather and share stories about Malaysia, through the eyes of everyday Malaysians. These stories are shared via social media, to raise the spirit of national pride and love for the country. 

Issued by:
Media Relations, External Communication 
Group Strategic Communications 
PETRONAS