KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysians of all political affiliation should come together to celebrate Merdeka this year instead of running down the country, said Deputy Education Minister Datuk Chong Sin Woon (pic).

Chong said everything had been politicised, from the economy to education.

“Can we put aside the political issues and celebrate the country’s independence. This country belongs to every one of us,” he said at the launch of a short video contest entitled “Negara Ku”.

In conjunction with the 60th anniversary of Merdeka, Orando Holdings Sdn Bhd is offering cash prices totaling RM128,000 for the best three-minute videos to commemorate the milestone.

Orando managing director Datuk Dr Eng Wei Chun said the contest would allow Malaysians to highlight what’s good about the country not only locally but to the world.

He said the grand prize winner would receive RM60,000 and a chance to be featured in Orando’s corporate video.

The contest starts from April 14 and the closing date for entries is on June 10.

Entries would be judged based on creativity, number of Facebook shares and appropriateness to the theme.

Those interested can submit their videos online to [email protected] or in CD/VDC form before 5pm on the closing date.

The event is supported by The Star, Sinchew Online, Secretariat For The Advancement of Malaysian Entrepreneurs (SAME) and aW Communications Sdn Bhd and the Noah Foundation.

For more information and contest registration form, please log on to www.orando.com.my or visit Orando Holding’s Facebook.-thestar