As August 31st draws closer by the second, our nation will be celebrating her 61st years of independence- a lengthy, rigorous journey for all Malaysians. This year, Merdeka celebration is not quite the same compared to the last 60 years for most Malaysians. Sevenpie went around to gather some comments from the from community around us and here’s a compilation of what Merdeka truly means:
1. Freedom
Source: Youtube
“Merdeka means having the freedom to express one’s thoughts, equal educational and economical opportunities, and the rights to select the government of our choice without fear”- Chan
2. Happiness
Source: Gifer
“Independence symbolizes happiness, because Malaysians will be gathered together to celebrate how far we’ve come as a nation. There will be a lot of laughter, joy and fun in the air this year!”- Abdul
3. Unity
Source: Malaymail
“This year is definitely something different people of different races and background have rallied together during GE14 and our voices were heard. So to me, this year’s Merdeka means unity and I’m very eager to showcase the Jalur Gemilang at the porch of my house!”- Devi
4. Sharing a destiny, together
“Merdeka means moving forward in life not only on a personal level, but as a nation. It’s about the creating opportunities for all Malaysians so that we will not lose our talents to overseas; we need all the help we can get so that Malaysia can be prosperous! We’re in this together, for better or for worse.”- Dr E. J
5. Being appreciative
“Now that we have achieved independence, we still have to go back to where it all started to remind ourselves to be appreciative.”- Shahir
6. Love and loyalty for the country
Source: Youtube
“For me, Merdeka means staying loyal to the nation. We need more young people to serve our country- teachers, police force, leaders. Express your love by your actions and not just words alone.”- Daniel
7. Being faithful
Source:Wordonfire
“Older generations learnt to be faithful during trying times especially when we were colonized by the British. After we’ve gain independence, the essence of staying faithful were slowly forgotten, but this faith was since renewed once more during GE14. Keep the faith for our country by remembering how far we’ve came, and the endless potential we can achieve.”- Jef
8. Make the country a better place
Source: Hopespeak
“Merdeka means creating a safe environment for our kids. Reduce the crime rates so that our kids can roam freely on the streets without us fearing of their safely. If we can do it in the past, why not now?”- Tan
9. Peace
Source: Gifer
“No more bloodshed. Say no to war. Dispute can be resolved as long as we remain civilized.”- Rajadran
10. Kindness
“Giving is an act of kindness that goes a long way. Instead of paying forward, how about teaching those in need a skill which they can use it to earn a living? Merdeka means liberating one from the vicious cycle of social class, and how each of us can create our own destiny with our own hands”- Sarah
So, what Merdeka means to you, dear readers?
Sevenpie wishes everyone Selamat Merdeka and have a joyous celebration over the long weekend!
Header picture source: Youtube
