Starchild: Malaysian children show their spirit of patriotism through drawings

Erin Sonia Colin, 11

We received an overwhelming response to the topic, Merdeka Day, which was celebrated on Monday.

Malaysia has just turned 63. Because of the Covid-19 pandemic, there was no parade or special events organised in conjunction with Merdeka. However, judging by the letters from Starchild readers, it is obvious that the patriotic spirit is well and alive and that Merdeka was no less meaningful to all of us.

Let’s hear what Starchild readers had to say on the topic, Merdeka.

Chia Yee Fern, 9

Nine-year-old Chia Yee Fern says Malaysia is a melting pot of different cultures and cuisines. “There are so many different types of food to choose from. In a day, I can have nasi lemak for breakfast, char kuey teow for lunch and top it off with naan and mango lassi for dinner. I am happy and proud to be a Malaysian.”

Sev

Mira Maiyuri Ragubalan, 7

en-year-old Mira Maiyuri Ragubalan thinks Malaysia is a beautiful country. She is proud of her country. “Malaysia has beautiful weather and nice beaches. My favourite beach holiday is Pulau Pangkor. I also love Malaysian food especially durian and roti canai.”

Mogil Alagan, 5

Mogil Alagan, five, writes: “ Happy Merdeka to Starchild readers. I like the song Saya Anak Malaysia and I’ve been learning to sing it in pre-school.”

“In conjunction with Merdeka, I have displayed the Jalur Gemilang outside my home. I am proud to be a Malaysian. Selamat Hari Merdeka, says Lee Shuang Ying, 10.

Aneesa Amanda Zulkarnaen, 8

“Selamat Hari Merdeka to all Malaysians. May we live in harmony together, ” says Aneesa Amanda Zulkarnaen, eight.

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 7

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, seven, says: “I am lucky that I am born in Malaysia, a peaceful and multi-racial country. There are many friendly people, colourful culture, rich heritage and fantastic food.”

Nur Amelin Syafina Noor Hazrin Saiful, 10

Nur Amelin Syafina Noor Hazrin Saiful, 10, says: “I love Malaysia because it’s a beautiful country. We are a 1Malaysia country living in happiness.”

Ahmad Aniq Mohd Yusri, 8

Eight-year-old Ahmad Aniq Mohd Yusri writes: “I am proud to be a Malaysian. My friends and family are Malaysians. It is indeed my beautiful home.”

Velina Letchumunan, 8

“Happy 63rd Merdeka Day. Long live Malaysia. Long may our flag wave, ” says Elden Lee Zhi Chai, four.

Keerthisha Ganapati, 11

Find the hidden words.

ITEM: All over the world, children (and adults) fly kites and it is a very enjoyable outdoor activity. Kites come in different colours and sizes too.

If you were to design a kite, what would it be like? Where would you want to fly it?

Don’t forget to send us a drawing too!

All letters must include your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below), gender, e-mail, phone number and address. Please write your name behind the drawing and the topic, My Kite, on the envelope. All letters must reach us by Sept 18. Send your letters to:

Starchild, c/o Lifestyle

Star Media Group Bhd

Menara Star, 15, Jalan 16/11

46350 Petaling Jaya,

Selangor

You can also e-mail your contributions to [e-mail]. Please put “STARCHILD” in the subject line of your e-mail. Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200 dpi.