PUTRAJAYA: It was particularly meaningful for parents who wear uniforms to work to see their children donning similar outfits while watching the National Day parade.
Among them was Sarawakian George Tonge, 41, an armed forces personnel, who used material from his old uniforms to make uniforms for his three children.
“It is very meaningful for me to see them in the uniforms because I will be retiring from the army next year.
“All three of my children are wearing uniforms that I used to wear.
“We altered my old uniforms to fit them,” he said.
George said he wanted his children to experience the excitement of wearing the uniforms while understanding the importance of patriotism.
“I believe it is important for them to wear these uniforms to kindle their patriotic spirit,” he said.
Former army personnel Firdaus Liman Abdullah, 32, also brought his five-year-old son to watch the parade in a modified version of his old army uniform.
“This is the second time he has worn it, and he was very excited,” said Firdaus, who now works as a dispatcher.
The proud father said he hoped his son would one day understand the sacrifices made by those in the armed forces to defend the country.
Nurse Nur Sabrina Ramli, 34, said dressing her two daughters in uniforms had become an annual National Day family tradition.
She said her daughters wore army uniforms last year, similar to those worn by their father, but donned rented navy uniforms this year.
She added that her daughters were eager to dress up for the occasion and woke up early to get ready, including putting on their make-up.
“Wearing these uniforms also increases their patriotism. They also feel proud and want to be like their father,” she added.
Five-year-old Raisya Hamdan arrived with her mother, Kadzleeza Abdul Kadir, 43, in matching camouflage uniforms complete with face paint.
“This is my daughter’s second time wearing this complete look. She was very excited about it,” said Kadzleeza when met at the parade.
“I believe letting her wear this outfit will help instil patriotism in her and teach her to appreciate the warriors who defend our country,” said Kadzleeza, who is an army personnel.
Raisya said she hoped to join the army like her mother when she grew up.
Also drawing attention were two brothers, Syaqif Affan, 10 and Syadiq Affan, 8, from Kajang who were wearing Prison Department uniforms.
“My sons are aware of where their father works, and they are very proud of it,” said their mother, Arifah Abdul Razak, 43.
Arifah said her sons had worn the uniforms on National Day for the past several years to instil in them a sense of patriotism and an appreciation of public service.
“I want to continuously remind them of their love for the country and what these jobs mean,” she said, adding that the uniforms were tailored to fit her sons.
