KUALA LUMPUR: A group of Malaysian students in Wellington, New Zealand marked Merdeka with a hike along the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track on Saturday (Aug 29).
The Merdeka Hike programme, organised by the Wellington Malaysian Students’ Organisation (WMSO), brought together Malaysian students and representatives from the High Commission of Malaysia in Wellington in a relaxed yet spirited atmosphere of togetherness ahead of the 69th National Day celebrations.
High Commissioner of Malaysia to New Zealand, Abu Bakar Mamat, said that celebrating National Day abroad carries a special significance, particularly in reminding Malaysians of the values of unity and togetherness despite being far from home.
"The Merdeka spirit can be celebrated in many ways. What matters most is how we continue to uphold a sense of togetherness, love for our country, and strong bonds among Malaysians, even when we are thousands of kilometers away from home,” he said in a statement on Sunday.
He added that such a programme also provides the High Commission with an opportunity to engage with young Malaysians and listen to their experiences while studying in New Zealand.
Throughout the hike, participants enjoyed panoramic views of Kāpiti Island and the Tasman Sea, while the South Island was also clearly visible in the distance, making their experience on the Paekākāriki Escarpment Track all the more special.
Beyond serving as a recreational outing, the hike allowed participants to network and foster ties within the local Malaysian community in an informal setting.
For Malaysian students in Wellington, celebrating Merdeka abroad is not merely about commemorating the historic date of August 31, but also serves as an opportunity to maintain a strong connection with their Malaysian identity and culture.
WMSO is a student-run organisation that actively organises programmes to strengthen bonds among Malaysian students and showcase Malaysia within the Wellington campus community.
The programme was among the activities held ahead of the 69th National Day celebration on August 31. - Bernama
