The historic moment Malaysia’s first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj raised his hand and shouted “Merdeka!” on Aug 31, 1957, has inspired a short film titled Gapai.
The three-minute film reimagines one of the nation’s iconic moments, which happened at Merdeka Stadium, through the experiences and everyday lives of Malaysians.
It serves as a reminder that the values of independence continue to shape Malaysians today, PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV), which commissioned the work in conjunction with National Month, said in a media statement.
The story culminates at the Merdeka 118 precinct, which includes the stadium, bringing together the nation’s rich history and aspirations for the future.
“As custodian of the nation’s most significant heritage, we have a responsibility not only to preserve our history, but to ensure it continues to inspire future generations,” PNBMV chief executive officer Datuk Izwan Ibrahim said at the film premiere in Kuala Lumpur.
“The Merdeka 118 precinct stands on the very ground where Malaysia’s independence was declared, and we want every visit here to be a reminder of where we came from and how far we have come.
“Gapai reflects the philosophy that guides everything we do.
“While we continue reaching for greater heights and aspire to build a world-class precinct, we remain firmly rooted in the community that defines this place.
“We want the people, local businesses and neighbourhood around us to thrive alongside the precinct,” he said.
Merdeka 118 precinct is also collaborating with social enterprise Locco on a three-day celebration starting Aug 29 at Merdeka Stadium and Merdeka Boulevard.
Highlights include a community bazaar, flashmob, cultural and heritage activities, and WarisanKL Explorace.
Visitors can also check out the latest attractions, including Look at 118, the ground-level viewing deck offering a unique perspective of Malaysia’s tallest tower, now officially named Menara Merdeka Maybank.
The newly opened Merdeka Textile Museum, which showcases the rich heritage of Malay World textiles, will be open throughout the Merdeka weekend.
Admission to the museum is free until Sept 30, via reservation at merdekatextile.com, while ticketed admission and walk-ins will start on Oct 1.
Gapai, produced by local production house Twentyoneseventeen in collaboration with PNBMV’s local creative agency M&C Saatchi Karsa Malaysia, is available on Merdeka 118’s official social media channels.
