KLUANG: What started as discarded plastic bottles has been transformed into a miniature PETRONAS Twin Towers, bringing a touch of Merdeka cheer to a garden in Taman Tasik Indah here.
For 53-year-old technician Chong Her Lih, the striking display is more than a decoration.
It is his way of celebrating National Day while spreading some joy in his community.
“I spent a week making the replica from about 30 plastic bottles collected from my colleagues at work. I painted them individually before securing them in place with adhesive tape and silicone.
“I also used discarded paint buckets found by the roadside as the base to raise the structure and give it a grander appearance.
“I spent only about RM80 on materials, including paint, flags and banners,” he said in an interview.
Chong also reused items he had at home, including stickers and artificial flowers, as he usually decorates his garden with his 81-year-old mother, Koo Leng Eng, during festive occasions such as Chinese New Year and Christmas.
“This is my second year putting up patriotic decorations at my house, and I installed lights so the replica glows at night.
“I also entered my replica in the National Month landscape decoration competition organised by the Kluang Municipal Council, but it is not about winning. I hope my actions inspire others to show their love for the country, too.”
The garden has since become a small neighbourhood attraction, with neighbours stopping by to admire the replica and take photos.
Chong said he also made it a point to check every flag and banner he bought to ensure they do not misrepresent the national flag.
“I hope people will not be discouraged from flying the Jalur Gemilang just because others have accidentally displayed it wrongly.
“On the contrary, such incidents remind us to be more alert and better appreciate our flag.”
