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This year would be the 55th year that Malaysia celebrates her independence from
British rule. However, times have changed Malaysia into a newer, more politically
aware and conscious young nation. It can certainly be argued that the patriotic
spirit has dwindled especially in the late 90’s and early 2000’s, partly due to
increased dissatisfaction and racial discrimination felt by a growing number of
young Malaysian Chinese and Indians. Unity among races and a greater patriotic
spirit among Malaysians are certainly stronger now than two decades or three
decades ago. Nevertheless, Malaysian citizens would be quick to proclaim their love
for their country, despite their misgivings for the country’s current administration.
Government buildings and corporations would start decorating the buildings with
the colours of the... [continues]
Malaysians celebrate 56th Merdeka Day in patriotic fervour
KUALA LUMPUR: People across the country gathered for parades to mark the 56th
Merdeka Day in the spirit of patriotism and love for the country, and honouring the
sacrifices made by the security forces.
Spectators headed for public gatherings in the capital, state capitals and major
towns to witness the celebration themed "Malaysiaku Berdaulat: Tanah Tumpahnya
Darahku" (My Sovereign Malaysia. My Homeland).
The royal couple were greeted by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak and his
wife, Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor, and Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin
Yassin and his wife, Puan Sri Norainee Abdul Rahman.
Tuanku Abdul Halim took a salute and inspected a parade mounted by four officers
and 103 men from the first battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment based in Sungai
Besi led by Major Mohamad Abdullah.
This was followed by the rendition of 'Negaraku' and the hoisting of the 'Jalur
Gemilang' accompanied by a 14-gun salute symbolising 14 states (including the
Federal Territories) in Malaysia by the Royal Artillery Regiment.
The prime minister hoped the patriotic spirit shown would be instilled among the
people, particularly the younger generation in an effort to take the country to the
pinnacle of success in the march towards a developed nation.
Najib commended contingents taking part in the parade, particularly the security
forces.
He said the sacrifices made by the security forces in defending the country against
the Sulu armed intrusion in Lahad Datu had soared the spirit of patriotism and love
for the country among Malaysians.
"This is our hope, renewing the patriotic spirit in our hearts as Malaysians who love
this country," he said.
Although Sabah and Sarawak gained their independence on 31 August 1963, Hari
Kemerdekaan is a significant date throughout Malaysia. On this day, Malaysians
from all backgrounds, race and religion celebrate together in a harmonious way.
Traditionally, a grand and colourful parade is held at the Merdeka Square in Kuala
Lumpur, where people can attend and celebrate. Various government agencies and
private sectors join together to participate in the parade. They will march in front of
the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong (the King), ministers, special guests and a sea of
spectators. Similarly, other parades are also held in different states.
Each year, there will be a different theme for the Merdeka celebration. For 2011, the
theme will be “1 Malaysia, Transformasi Berjaya, Rakyat Sejahtera” (1 Malaysia,
Transformation Success, People Peace). This theme is in conjunction with the
concept of 1Malaysia, touted by the Prime Minister, Dato’ Seri Najib Tun Razak. All
Malaysians are urged to embrace the concept of transformation which brings about
a meaningful process of innovation that can benefit the people. It will also help
continue the process of producing a vibrant young generation.
This year’s celebration will mark the 54th anniversary of Malaysian independence.
During the Merdeka month, the Malaysians will also show their patriotism towards
the country by raising the Malaysian flag wherever possible - along the streets,
houses, office premises and also vehicles.
National Day / Merdeka Day 2013,
31 August 1957 marks the day that the Federation of Malaya gained its independence from
British colonization, forming what we know of today as Malaysia. Hence, 31 August is a
National Public Holiday to commemorate and celebrate the freedom and independence gained.
This day is also known as Hari Merdeka in the Malay language and that is why the celebration of
Independence Day is incomplete without the seven shouts of “Merdeka!”. This gesture was
initiated by the First Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman back in 1957 at Dataran
Merdeka.
Although it is only a one day public holiday, the celebration builds up from a month before right
up to Malaysia Day which is on the 16th of September.
During this whole month of August, also known as the Merdeka month, you will see most
Malaysians express their patriotism and love towards their culturally unique country by raising
the Malaysian flag on their vehicles, balcony of their homes and even along the streets! It is also
during this time that government buildings all over Kuala Lumpur and most shopping malls are
hoisted with the Malaysian flag, Jalur Gemilang.
The whole build up towards Malaysia’s Independence Day is celebrated with pride and joy
where competitions and parades will be held; sometimes school children practice for
performances which will be presented during Independence Day itself.
Every year there is a specific theme for Independence Day. Previous years, the themes were “My
Glorious Malaysia”, “1Malaysia: Transforming the Nation”, “55 Years of Independence:
Promises Fulfilled” and etc. These themes will be reflected in the decorations and focus for
Independence Day that year.
In short, Independence Day serves as a reminder to all Malaysians to appreciate the tough fight
our ancestors had fought and to educate the current generation about the spirit of Independence.