Remember that iconic scene where Tunku Abdul Rahman cries out "Merdeka!" 7 times? That was 63 years ago now. I am just 21 years old and I cannot say I truly understand that feeling. The freedom our country gained decades ago. Thankfully, that freedom allows me to be here today.
However, the definition of Merdeka is wider than that. It's not just about the freedom we gained. Not just about no longer a British Colony.
Merdeka can bring lots of meaning to different people. Unity can be Merdeka, flourished country can be Merdeka, maybe Merdeka is also when our citizens are stronger together. No poverty, no barriers between each other. No more huge gaps between the poor and the rich and where education is accessible to everyone. Just maybe if that picture can be paint easily, Merdeka might be more meaningful. More celebrated by everyone. Merdeka should never be just another public holiday with no/minimal celebration.
I am feeling more patriotic than usual this year. Getting sentimental when I can't see any Jalur Gemilang flags on the vehicles on the road this year. It made me think for awhile, can we actually forget our Independence Day? Can we actually forget all the sacrifices our ancestors made? All the blood shed for this nation's freedom?
To more Independence Day together, in a more flourished country where we have stronger unity.
