AS Malaysia celebrates its National Day, young Malaysians reflect on what independence means to them. From digital activism to everyday kindness, their voices echo a shared belief in “unity through diversity, a nation strengthened not by sameness, but by respect for differences”.
“It’s about the freedom to be myself.”
Ruhan Ravindran, 23, Kuantan, Pahang – Communication student, Universiti Sains Malaysia
Being able to pursue what I love, study, build my career, make friends and connect with people without fear of discrimination – that, to me, is Merdeka. It’s heartening to see Malaysians standing united despite our differences.
The more we engage and understand each other, the stronger our national bond becomes.
“The joy of sharing space and stories.”
Tashmanth Poobalan, 23, Bukit Mertajam, Penang – Electronic Engineering student, Universiti Sains Malaysia
Merdeka is about living side by side with friends from all backgrounds – Malays, Chinese, Indians, Orang Asli – studying together, sharing stories over teh tarik and laughing through late-night assignments.
What gives me hope is how we’re using digital platforms to connect and amplify voices that have long been unheard. If we truly listen, support local causes and celebrate each other’s cultures, we can build real unity.
“Appreciation, not just tolerance.”
Lee June Ling, 21, Sandakan, Sabah – English Language student, Unitar
Merdeka means being able to mix freely with people of all races and appreciate what each culture brings to the table.
The younger generation is more open now, and that gives me hope. Even if we don’t follow the same customs, we can still respect and live harmoniously with each other.
“Freedom means being seen and heard.”
Alisa Adriana Mohamad Idris, Cyberjaya – Intern
True freedom is when my ideas are valued at work and I am not being judged by my skin colour, religion or the language I speak.
I see more women entering the workforce today, and that tells me we’re growing into a more inclusive society.
A shared national language helps us communicate, but embracing the many languages we speak at home also helps us connect on a deeper level.
“It starts with free thought.”
Lew Guan Xi, 23, Petaling Jaya, Selangor – Writer
We’re not truly independent if our thinking is still shaped by outdated norms or societal pressure.
Merdeka is the freedom to form your own opinions.
To build unity, we need to start seeing each other as Malaysians first.
We’ve made progress, but we still have a way to go.
“#kitajagakita showed us what unity looks like.”
Nur Amira Natasya Tsalimy, 24, Kajang, Selangor – Bachelor of Science student, UiTM Shah Alam
During the Covid-19 lockdowns, people didn’t wait for instructions, they just helped. #kitajagakita wasn’t a slogan, it was action. That’s Merdeka.
Social media now helps bring issues to the surface quickly, whether it’s floods or injustice.
But unity also requires courage to call out racism and classism, even when it’s uncomfortable – especially then.
“Being Malaysian means living without fear.”
Muhammad Feris Aulia, 24, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur – Student, UniKL MIAT
For me, it’s the ability to live peacefully, speak freely and be part of a multiracial community.
I find hope in how people are standing up for one another more often, regardless of race or religion. Unity starts with small acts, learning about each other, celebrating together and simply being kind.
“Merdeka means breaking free from old mindsets.”
Nur Saidatul Huda Zazali, 23, Jengka, Pahang – Bachelor of Agribusiness Science student, Universiti Putra Malaysia
It’s not just about being free from colonisation. It’s about freedom from discrimination and from toxic or narrow thinking.
When I see more women succeeding in education and careers, I see that change happening.
We’ll be stronger as a nation when we close the gaps between us, economically, socially and educationally – and Gen Z is ready to lead that charge.
“Online spaces should value ideas, not identity.”
Theynavan Punithan, 24, Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan – Bachelor of Business Administration student, Unitar
Merdeka means being able to contribute ideas online and be judged on what I say, not who I am.
Of course there are boundaries, but being able to share thoughts without prejudice is its own kind of freedom.
I am hopeful when I see young Malaysians making the most of digital spaces. From women running online businesses to youth pushing for change, it proves that the Internet can level the playing field.
Even viral dance trends and charity drives show us coming together as Malaysians.
“Compassion makes Malaysia feel like home.”
Tengku Ayuna Shamelin, 21, Bukit Jalil, Kuala Lumpur – Mass Communication student, UiTM Melaka (
first from left)
It’s not just about chasing dreams or speaking up; it’s about being proud of who I am, without fear or judgement.
What gives me hope is when strangers help each other, no questions asked.
If we can appreciate each other’s cultures like we do each other’s food, we’ll be just fine. Respect goes a long way.
“Kindness is our common ground.”
Nurul Hanani binti Abdul Aziz, 22, Klang, Selangor – Communication student, Universiti Sains Malaysia
I’m grateful to be able to live in peace, surrounded by friends of all backgrounds. That’s freedom to me.
What gives me hope is how unafraid our generation is to speak up, question and change things. Unity doesn’t have to be complicated – respect each other, show up for causes that matter and lead with kindness. That’s enough to start.
