"Tanggal 31, bulan 8, 57"~

Appreciating independence is a responsibility of every Malaysian. It is not just about appreciating those who have fought for the country, but more towards understanding and appreciating the independence that we achieved. There are three ways that we can deeply appreciate our independence! Let’s explore these steps to celebrate our independence with more appreciation towards our country!

Educate the younger generation

Educating the younger generation is not limited to teaching the subjects of Kajian Tempatan or History. The reason for educating the younger generation is to bestow the knowledge that can be passed down from generation to generation. Educating them can instil the feeling of love towards our own country. With this, we can remind the younger generation about the culture and practices of the motherland, as the proverb goes: when in Rome, do what the Romans do.

There are a plethora of ways to educate, such as visiting a local museum or sharing old experiences. The younger generation is more inclined to story-like sharing sessions. Through personal experience sharings, the patriotic spirit can be inculcated within the youngsters. Other than that, there is an abundance of mass media that focuses on instilling patriotism through campaigns as one of the ways to celebrate independence day. With every information and communication within one touch, patriotism can be infused easily within youths.

Appreciating our country's language 

“Bahasa jiwa bangsa” or “The language is the soul of the nation”. We often stumble upon this proverb. Bahasa jiwa bangsa symbolises the identity of a certain nation. A national language is important as it also symbolises indistinguishability of one nation. The comprehension of a certain language can deliver information and communication between one another. Upholding a language is simple but meaningful to portray the spirit of independence day. Appreciating our national language, Bahasa Malaysia, can show our affection as well as loyalty towards our country.

There are few ways that we can appreciate our language and heritage of our country. Some of the ways are:

1. Producing artworks using Bahasa Malaysia.
2. Appreciating excerpts of the country’s heritage
3. Empowering the usage of Bahasa Malaysia without codeswitching (mixing language/rojak).
4. Respecting the usage of Bahasa Malaysia, anywhere.
5. Practise courtesy when speaking or writing in Bahasa Malaysia.

Let’s dignify and broaden our knowledge on Bahasa Malaysia, appreciating our country’s heritage. By dignifying our mother tongue, it can strengthen our nation, letting our proud language remain in the face of globalisation.

Practising tolerance and harmony

Another way on how to celebrate Merdeka day is by practising tolerance. According to the English dictionary from Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, tolerance means “the capacity to tolerate something over a period”. In Malaysia, we live amongst various ethnicities and religions. Practising tolerance and harmony is important for every Malaysian. When we live in tolerance, the harmony of the community and country will be preserved.

One of the ways to practise tolerance and harmony of the country is to accept and respect other people’s opinions. It is important to avoid ego from overwhelming you when socialising with others. When we are open to other parties’ thoughts and opinions, we are prone to widen our knowledge and create bonds between one another in a community. Hence, not only the harmony is being kept, but can maintain tolerance with one another.

Appreciating independence is not a one-time only job, it should be a commitment. By educating the younger generation and appreciating our heritage and harmony, we can cultivate a sense of independence in the heart of every Malaysian. Through tolerance, we strengthen the foundation of unity and harmony. With this continuous effort, the independence we have achieved will continue to give meaning and benefit to the present and future generations. Let's cultivate the spirit of patriotism and protect the country's independence with full of love and responsibility. Happy Independence day!