Starchild: Malaysian children fly the Jalur Gemilang with pride on Merdeka Day

Ashlynn Grace Oommen, 6

Next week, our country celebrates Merdeka. It is a special day to mark the country’s 65 years of independence. Let’s hear what our readers have to say on the topic, Merdeka.

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 7

Seven-year-old Bethany Wang Qi Syuen is proud to be a Malaysian. “Malaysians are friendly and the country is peaceful, safe and beautiful to live in. This year, I hope to master a patriotic Chinese song taught in school in conjunction with Merdeka Day. Happy Merdeka, Malaysia!”

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, 4

Younger sibling Asher Wang Qi Chuen, four, writes: “Malaysia is a beautiful place, it has many schools for children to study and delicious nasi lemak for food. I would like to watch fireworks on Merdeka day.”

Emelia Chandrani, 11

Emelia Chandrani Surenthran, 11, writes: “I wish for peace and happiness this Merdeka.”

Aditya Surenthran, 12

Older brother Aditya Surenthan, 12, says: “Malaysians will fly the national flag a month before National Day. I will also be flying the Jalur Gemilang as a show of patriotism. To show my love for Malaysia, I have designed a wau as kite flying is one of our country’s traditional games. I wish everyone Selamat Hari Merdeka!”

Erica Sophia, 12

“Malaysia Prihatin was the national theme for our country’s Merdeka celebrations for 2021. But I like this theme because it represents our country’s awareness to stay strong to overcome the pandemic. I am grateful Malaysians live in peace and harmony,” writes Erica Sophia, 12.

“Selamat Hari Merdeka to everyone living in Malaysia. I am looking forward to flying the Jalur Gemilang with my younger brother Christopher on August 31,” writes Ashlynn Grace Oommen, six.

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, 9

Jayden Tan Li Sheng, nine, says: “I am looking forward to a colouring contest on Merdeka day. I have held a get-together party with a few of my friends and family members at my house on that day too. I wish our country continues to prosper in peace and harmony. Happy Merdeka!”

Find the hidden words!

ITEM: Tell us about your best friend. Is your BFF (best friend forever) someone from school, your sibling or cousin? Tell us what are the qualities you like best about your friend. You can either draw a picture of your BFF or send us a photograph.

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by Sept 9.

Please put “STARCHILD: Best Friend Forever” in the subject line of your email. Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200 dpi.

Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone number and address.

ITEM: Do you like fusion food? If you’re wondering what this is, it’s cuisine that combines elements of different culinary traditions. For example, combining Italian food with Japanese cuisine or Thai food with French flavours.

Have you sampled dishes with such elements? If yes, which are your favourite dishes? If you get a chance to create a fusion food dish, what would you come up with? Tell us what makes your dish special.

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by Sept 9.

Please put “STARCHILD: Fusion Food” in the subject line of your email. Scanned drawings should be in jpeg format, with a resolution of 200 dpi.

Your contributions must carry your full name, age (open to children aged 12 and below only), gender, phone number and address.