(From left) Yusoff, Ayob Khan, Fatimah and Leonard pose with the newly-launched book. – Photo by Galileo Petingi
KUCHING (June 6): Integrity, the cornerstone of a strong and resilient nation, begins at home long before it is practised in corporate boardrooms or public offices, said Sarawak Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.
Speaking at the launch of the book “Strengthening Integrity, Empowering the Nation: Integrity as the Foundation of Leadership” at Pustaka Negeri here, Fatimah said children develop their understanding of integrity from an early age by observing the behaviour of their parents and family members.
“Children learn integrity long before they enter school. They watch how adults keep their promises, speak the truth and demonstrate fairness,” she said.
According to Fatimah, strong families produce responsible citizens, while responsible citizens contribute to strong communities, and ultimately, a stronger nation.
She stressed that integrity must not be confined to government institutions alone but should be cultivated across all levels of society, including homes, schools, workplaces and community organisations.
“Children may not always remember what we say, but they will always remember what we do,” she said, urging parents, educators, community leaders and policymakers to lead by example.
Fatimah also reminded parents and educators that success should not be measured solely by wealth, status, or achievements, but by a person’s character and values.
The 506-page book, authored by Prof Datuk Dr Leonard Sabu, which explores the role of integrity in leadership and nation-building, was jointly launched by Deputy Inspector-General Tan Sri Ayob Khan Mydin Pitchay and Fatimah.
Also present was former Sarawak Police Commissioner Datuk Mohd Yusoff Jaafar, who serves as a special advisor to the publication.
