GEORGE TOWN: With just two weeks until National Day, 11-year-old N. Ashitta is already feeling the pure pride and joy that comes from waving the Jalur Gemilang.
Although she is not participating in the parade, N. Ashitta and her mother, B. Nishantini, 37, began designing Ashitta’s outfit weeks in advance.
For Ashitta, dressing up is an important part of the celebration.
“Every year, I wear an outfit which has all four colours of our Jalur Gemilang.
“My mother and I select the fabric and design the outfit together before sending the details to a tailor to have it made for me.
“We will then go watch the parade, and I would sing along and join the celebrations,” said the bubbly girl when met at Ramakrishna Ashrama Penang.
Ashitta said she understands the meaning behind celebrating National Day and has picked up facts about Malaysian history.
“My grandmother and teachers have taught me what the four colours on the flag represent, the states they stand for, who our Bapa Kemerdekaan is and why Aug 31 is important.
“I enjoy learning these things, and as a Malaysian, all this information matters to me,” she added.
The SJK(T) Ladang Juru pupil said she is eagerly looking forward to the parade this year and hopes to take photos with army and police personnel.
Nursing trainer Nishantini said her daughter has always been excited about National Day.
“It started when she was four or five years old, and ever since then we have made it a family affair to watch the parade together.
“When we first started, we used to dress Ashitta in outfits having red, white, yellow and blue colours, but now, it has become an annual project to specially design and make her outfits in the Jalur Gemilang colours.
“I am glad that she has taken an interest in our history and country, as it is important to teach children from a young age about the hardships and struggles which brought us here,” she said.
S. Sukithvarman, six, said he is learning various patriotic songs.
“I know the colours and significance of the stripes.
“I always join in the celebrations near my house in Butterworth.
“My family takes me to the marchpast and performances.
“I take part in the festivities in school as well, and this year I have a special T-shirt to wear,” he said.
Ashitta and Sukithvarman were among the children participating in the Thirumurai – compilation of 12 volumes of devotional hymns in Tamil dedicated to Lord Shiva recital – where the Penang Hindu Endowment Board (PHEB)gave out 800 Jalur Gemilang to children and adults.
Also present were PHEB board chairman RSN Rayer and his deputy, Senator Dr A. Lingeshwaran.
