Starchild: Malaysian children are in high spirits to celebrate Merdeka Day

Chloe Leong Xizhen, 8

This Tuesday, Malaysia turns 64. Every Hari Merdeka has a specific theme, often also a customised logo and song. The theme for Merdeka 2021, however – Malaysia Prihatin – is the same as last year and it calls on Malaysians to continue to care for each other as the country battles against Covid-19. Caring for one another is one way we can all show our patriotism!

Did you know the word “Merdeka” means “independence” or “freedom” in both Malay and also Indonesian languages. It is derived from the Sanskrit maharddhika, which means rich, prosperous and powerful.