KUALA LUMPUR: With National Day coming up next week, places of memory come to mind.
Malaysians have the opportunity to reconnect with places and events that shaped the nation now that iconic landmarks such as Stadium Merdeka, Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad and Seri Negara have reopened their doors to the public.
“For people like me, these places bring back memories,” said sales adviser Nizam Salleh, 56. “But for my children and the younger generation, if they are not exposed to such places, they may not know about them.”
He welcomed the reopening of the historic landmarks, saying they could help younger Malaysians learn more about the country’s past.
Stadium Merdeka reopened in August 2024 after being closed for several years for restoration work.
Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad welcomed visitors again in February this year upon the conclusion of a conservation programme.
And Seri Negara reopened in December last year after restoration was completed.
Nizam believes that Malaysians are enthusiastic about participating in National Day events despite having to put up with the hot weather these days.
“The spirit of Malaysia is strong.
“When there are events related to National Day, the response is quite good,” he said.
His son, Muhammad Afif Nizam, 17, said young Malaysians should take the opportunity to visit historic sites and learn more about the country’s past.
“Teenagers should come to these places, such as Stadium Merdeka. They can learn history and embrace the patriotic spirit,” he said.
He also hopes Malaysians of different backgrounds will continue working together to make the country better.
Operations manager Noor Hayati Khalid, 43, said these heritage landmarks had drawn both local and foreign visitors.
“This shows that many people are still interested in visiting historic places in Malaysia,” she said.
She added that she felt more enthusiastic about this year’s National Day celebrations because of the number of activities being held.
Paediatrician Dr Shivaani Mukesh Chander, 35, said the reopening of Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad was a good way to promote Malaysia’s heritage and culture.
She said the restored building, together with the Malaysian businesses operating there, offered visitors a chance to experience the country’s identity.
“It is a good way to promote our culture. A lot of foreigners go there, so it is a good showcase,” she said.
As for ideation proposal executive Brandon Lee, 30, he believes in promoting sports.
“Sports can bring Malaysians together, regardless of background,” he said.
Social media coordinator Lim Chee Yang, 24, said that historic sites could attract foreign visitors and contribute to tourism.
He added that the country should always place priority on its people and communities when drawing up policies for the public.
