Starchild: What Merdeka means to Malaysian children

Nadia Asha Solomon, 7

Yesterday was Malaysia’s 66th Merdeka celebrations.

Every year on Aug 31, Malaysians of all ages come together to celebrate Merdeka, which marks the day Malaysia gained its independence from the British. It’s a bit like the country’s birthday, and everyone’s invited to join the party.

But Merdeka isn’t just about the celebrations; it’s also a time to remember the people and events behind the historic day. Starchild readers, let’s take a trip back in time to learn about Tunku Abdul Rahman, the country’s first prime minister, who played a crucial role in negotiating for our nation’s independence. His efforts inspire us to cherish the harmony of our diverse cultures.

Merdeka Day is a time of togetherness, respect, and love for our country and when we celebrate being part of this beautiful tapestry of cultures.

Here are the letters from Starchild readers on the topic, Merdeka.

“One of my happiest memories is celebrating Merdeka Day in school. It is so fun to see my friends dressed in traditional costumes. I can’t wait to see my friend Leai in her baju kurung and my buddy Sarah in her cheongsam this year. I’m wearing a bright red Indian costume with bangles as my accessories,” says Nadia Asha Solomon, seven.

Jacob Navin Solomon, 7

Younger sibling Jacob Navin Solomon, seven, is happy to be a Malaysian. “My birthday is coming up, and I’ve already asked my parents for yummy Malaysian food for this special day. I want to eat roti canai, nasi lemak, chicken rice and kuih lapis. I plan to visit the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur one day. I want to climb Mount Kinabalu in Sabah when I’m much older. Here’s my design for a Proton car for this year’s Merdeka celebrations.

Ong Keat Hsin, 8

“I love Malaysia because it is my homeland. It’s a beautiful country with nice beaches and tasty nasi lemak. It’s also a safe place for children to play outdoors,” says Asher Wang Qi Chuen, five.

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, 5

Older sister Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, eight, is proud to be a Malaysian because it is peaceful. “The country provides free education for children. I am happy that I can go to a Chinese school and still have friends of different races. Malaysia is nice and sunny too.”

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 8

“Malaysia gained its independence in 1957. Our country is 66 years old. I am so proud to be a Malaysian. I love my country. Yesterday, I watched the Merdeka Day parade on television. Watching the parade always reminds me of the happy memories of living in Malaysia,” says Low Ying Xi, 11.

Low Ying Xi, 11

Amberly Wong, 11, feels proud to sing Negaraku, the country’s national anthem. She loves the Jalur Gemilang flag too. “I am happy to be a Malaysian and celebrate Merdeka with fellow Malaysians. Happy Merdeka, everyone! Merdeka!"

Amberly Wong, 11

Find the hidden words!

ITEM: Imagine you are a prince or princess living in a grand castle. Draw your dream castle with tall spires, secret passages, and a charming courtyard. Add rooms for royal feasts, magical pets, and enchanted gardens. Let your imagination fill the castle with wizards, fairies, and knights ready for magical adventures in this enchanting realm.

Let your creativity shine as you picture yourself in this wondrous, fairytale world.

Email your contributions to [e-mail] by Sept 15. Please put “STARCHILD: Fairytale World” 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.