Former minister Rafidah Aziz said social organisations, private sector, youth organisations, and Malaysians - led by the government - must unite to push the country forward.

She said after people managed to let off what was on their chests and get rid of their ‘geram’ (anger), what is needed is a multi-pronged effort by those who want to see Malaysia continue to move forward successfully towards 2020 and beyond.

In a Facebook posting today, Rafidah said she was glad nothing untoward happened at yesterday’s red shirt ‘Himpunan Rakyat Bersatu’, except some people got a “bath” from the Federal Reserve Unit’s water cannon.

The former Umno Wanita chief also posted her comments a few days after the Bersih 4 gathering and criticised the red shirts for its counter rally.

However, Rafidah, who headed the international trade and industry ministry, said it was vital for the country to move forward, with the government leading the charge.

She called for programmes which prioritise national harmony and the need to understand each other.

“We have to go beyond slogans and emphasise the fact that we swim and float together...or sink together, if we do not unite as one," she said.

'Govern for the sake of the people'

“The government should not allow narrow politics to dictate; never play politics on national unity and govern for the sake of the people and country,” she added.

Rafidah calls on social organisations to continue programmes which break racial barriers and foster unity.

She said they should have more outreach efforts for the young, and make national unity and national interest as part of its objective.

Rafidah, who had looked after the private sector for some time, also urged them to have confidence in the country and think long-term.

“Malaysia is full of promise and potential. Stay the course with us, and continue to reap the benefits in the future,” she said, noting the private sector is the catalyst for Malaysia's economy.

She also placed hope on youths, for them to be proud to be called Malaysians and criticise without malice or ill intent.

She urged Malaysians to help past leaders achieve their vision for the country.

“Let us see each other as Malaysians. Do not let acrimony and parochialism destroy the harmony and put unnecessary stumbling blocks and constraints to Malaysia moving forward, the way our past leaders have planned it,” she added.