His father’s stories of independence inspired antique collector J. Prakash to preserve hundreds of items tied to the nation’s past.
GROWING up, J. Prakash’s father instilled in him the importance of Aug 31, 1957, and the 47-year-old has now collected over 700 pieces of history commemorating that day.
The antique collector said his father kept almost anything associated with National Day.
“My father experienced our nation’s independence as a teenager and understood what it took to achieve it.
“He was a patriotic man and always shared the hardships of life during the pre-independence years.
“When I grew older, I realised it is important not only to remember but to keep these special items that might otherwise be lost over the years.
“I have over 700 pieces of original photos, documents, magazines, glasses, postcards and a shirt,” he said.
His collection also includes items said to have been signed by the country’s first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, copies of the Rukun Negara and songs printed for the 1957 celebration.
“What is special is that I have the Penang National Day 1957 celebration guide, which is a rare find as only new copies were printed for state celebrations.
“This book details the itinerary for the celebration at The Esplanade and around George Town throughout the months, including free cinema screenings and sports competitions,” he said.
In 1957, he noted, the celebrations in Penang continued until Sept 29.
“It was filled with festivities and the book even detailed wishes from various leaders,” he said.
Prakash, who owns over 5,000 antique items in general, said he is always sourcing National Day and Malaysia-related items.
“These finds are treasures to me as they are hard to come by.
“There are many veteran collectors who source these items and I can be considered relatively new to this group.
“I have taken it up as a challenge and plan to keep growing my collection, as it is important to remember our history,” he said.
For Prakash, celebrating National Day on a smaller scale and treasuring such items is important.
“Collecting these items is my way of showing my gratitude for our Independence.
“I hope more people, associations and schools will hold events or gatherings to celebrate National Day together.
“We need to all play our part so that the younger generation knows our Malaysian history.”
