Never too early to embrace Merdeka spirit

In the patriotic mood: (From left) Habib and others putting up Jalur Gemilang at their block in Cheras. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star

PETALING JAYA: Even with National Day being over two weeks away, residents of Sri Melaka flats in Cheras are already embracing the Merdeka spirit.

The iconic red, blue, white and yellow of the Jalur Gemilang could be seen lining the flat’s Block 14 as residents, led by 62-year-old retiree Habib Taha, set up National Day decorations around their entire block.

Habib told The Star that setting up the decorations early has become an annual tradition for the residents of his block.

“We love National Day as it’s a day where all residents can come together to celebrate something we all have in common,” he said.

“I really love the build-up to National Day as we work to beautify our community together.”

Habib, who worked as a supervisor for a private company before retiring in 2020, added that they would usually begin setting up the decorations around the block at least one to two weeks before National Day every year.

“Even those who can’t directly help like the working folks or older residents, will give us some donations to buy decorations or pass us their bought decorations to be set up,” he said.

National Day celebrations are expected to be held in Putrajaya this year on Aug 31.