Glory to the nation: B. Giridiran and his baby daughter Dharshinaesai looking at the Jalur Gemilang at Dataran Lobak, Seremban. — SARBAN SINGH/The Star
SEREMBAN: Dataran Lobak near here has to be the go-to location for this year’s National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations as the square has been decorated with hundreds of Jalur Gemilang, colourful Malaysia Madani banners and backdrop panels, adding to the celebratory atmosphere.
The Jalur Gemilang has been hung around the square, with colourful lights switched on in the evening.
Lobak assemblyman Chew Seh Yong said volunteers, including representatives from NGOs, had come together to put up the national flags and decorations.
“This is the second year running we will be celebrating both events here, and it was so heartwarming to see multiracial Malaysians, including senior citizens, coming together in the spirit of Malaysia Madani to lend a hand to decorate the square.
“This will surely go a long way to strengthen unity as well as love for the nation,” he said.
Chew said the flags have also been put up at two vernacular schools, SJK(T) Lobak and SJK Chan Wa, located just outside the square, further strengthening the feeling of national pride.
He said many outsiders were also coming to the square, especially at night, since the place has been turned into a popular Instagrammable hotspot.
“We decided to put up hundreds of Jalur Gemilang to express our love for our country.
“We have lined up several events which will see the participation of Malaysians from all walks of life to celebrate National Day and Malaysia Day together.”
Among the events are a traditional dress competition, a race up the 14-storey Templer Flats and sports.
Chew thanked donors who had contributed towards buying the Jalur Gemilang, which was also distributed to the surrounding residents.
He said to foster a better understanding among all Malaysians, major festivals such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, Wesak Day, Deepavali and Christmas were also held at the square.
Locals said they were proud to see hundreds of Jalur Gemilang there.
Retiree Mohd Ghani Abdul Rahman, 62, said this will further help instil the spirit of patriotism and love for the country, especially among the younger generation.
“The younger generation needs to know the meaning of independence and the sacrifices made by our forefathers to attain it.
“We should also be reminded of the importance of flying the national flag with pride and more so during the Merdeka month.”
Concurring with Mohd Ghani was 38-year-old self-employed Jessie Lee.
“I put up the Jalur Gemilang at my home every year as I am very proud to be a Malaysian.
“We live in a blessed country and we should always promote mutual respect and understanding among us,” she added.
