Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 11
Malaysia will celebrate its 67th National Day tomorrow and this is an important day that marks our country’s independence.
This year’s theme, “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka,” is all about bringing together people from various cultures and backgrounds to live in harmony.
“Malaysia Madani” means a peaceful society where everyone, irrespective of race and religion, is treated with respect. “Jiwa Merdeka” refers to the free spirit in the hearts of all Malaysians, reminding us of the independence we cherish.
Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 9
During the National Day, or Merdeka celebrations, there will be parades, cultural performances, and other fun activities that show off the rich traditions of Malaysia’s many communities.
It is a time when everyone, young and old, come together to celebrate our country. Seeing people from different backgrounds united under the Malaysian flag reminds us of the importance of living in harmony.
As we celebrate, let’s remember that “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka” is not just a theme for this year. It’s a message that should guide us as we grow, reminding us to always respect one another and work together to build a fair and just nation.
Christabel Chew, 9
Recently Starchild asked readers to send in letters on the topic, Merdeka. Here’s what they had to say.
“Merdeka is celebrated on Aug 31. It is the day that Tunku Abdul Rahman declared independence from the British. Merdeka is celebrated by all citizens of Malaysia and on this day, some people will attend parades performed by the army, police and firemen of the country,” writes Lim Sheng Hao, 11.
Chuah Seng Koon, 8
“Merdeka Day is Malaysia’s Independence Day which falls on Aug 31 every year. It is also declared a public holiday as it is an important event. Tunku Abdul Rahman is our first prime minister. He was also known as Bapa Kemerdekaan or Father of Independence,” says eight-year-old Chuah Seng Koon.
Christabel Chew, nine, is proud that Malaysia has gained independence for 67 years.
“Every year on 31st August, Malaysians come together to celebrate this significant day. Many shops offer special discounts for customers, and the national parade is broadcast on television for everyone to enjoy. Streets are lined with Malaysia flags, proudly displaying our respect and love for the nation.”
Wong Cheng Yang, 10
“Merdeka is celebrated on Aug 31 every year. There will be a long parade with people representing different communities and respectable uniformed bodies. Some people watch the parade at home or at the celebration place. Malaysia is popular with food and its history. The Jalur Gemilang has different meanings in its colours. It represents resolute spirit, fortune and unity for all. I wish Malaysia can be a better country in the future,” says Wong Cheng Yang, 10.
Wong Jie Ern, 8
Younger sibling Wong Jie Ern, eight, loves Malaysia for its multi-racial community, culture and harmony. “There are many races in Malaysia like Chinese, Malay, Indian, Kadazan, Iban and Eurasians. I also love Malaysian food because it is tasty. Penang is the best place for yummy food.”
“Merdeka Day falls on Aug 31, and this year marks the 67th celebration. In Malaysia, people celebrate by singing patriotic songs. It is a public holiday, and many take the opportunity to watch the Independence Day parade, and pay their respects at Tugu Negara in Kuala Lumpur,” says Chng Yan Bei, nine.
Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 11, writes: “I love Malaysia because it is my homeland with a multitude of rich cultures, languages and traditions. I have friends from different races. To show our patriotism, we decorated our classroom with Jalur Gemilang and posters of Hari Kemerdekaan. I want to wish all Malaysians Happy Merdeka and continue to live in harmony.”
Lim Sheng Hao, 11
Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, nine, says Malaysia is unique like no other country. “We have many different races living in harmony, resulting in our rich culture and many delicious cuisines. Happy 67th Birthday, Malaysia!”
ITEM: If you could talk to an animal, which one would you choose? Maybe you’d like to chat with a wise old owl to learn its secrets about the night. Or perhaps you’d pick a playful dolphin to hear stories about life in the ocean. You could even talk to a cat to discover what it’s thinking when it purrs or explores the neighbourhood. Each animal has its own world and adventures to share. So, who would you choose, and what questions would you ask to uncover the mysteries of their lives?
Email your contributions to lifestyle@thestar.com.my by Sept 13. Please put “STARCHILD: The Animal Whisperer” in the subject line of your email.
Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200dpi. Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone contact, and address. Instead of handwritten letters, please type out your letters.
