Things to remember this National Day

IN an unsettled world, it’s good to be reminded of Malaysia’s good fortune.

From auspicious beginnings when we came together to work towards independence without bloodshed, and with wise and pragmatic leaders who knew as long as 67 years ago that it takes every type of Malayan and Malaysian to grow this little nation, we have steered a fairly steady course to become what we are today, the little Asian nation that could.

Six decades ago, we dare say it was an experiment of sorts to lay out in black and white how different races could live together peacefully.

Since then, it has been proven time and again, and in so many ways, that Malaysia’s greatest strength is its multiracial society.

Even in our darkest hour, during the May 13 race riots in 1969, caused in part by a mob mentality, there were tales of people of different races protecting each other.During more recent times of trouble – catastrophic floods, natural disasters, the Covid-19 pandemic – again there were heartwarming stories of people reaching out across racial and religious lines to help.

But even if we set aside emergencies, we only need to see how the different beliefs and traditions of the Malay, Chinese, Indian, Punjabi, Orang Asli, and other people’s beliefs and traditions have come together to weave a rich social tapestry that is unique in the world.

We believe that, apart from marking the moment we secured our independence, National Day also means the moment the first threads of this tapestry began coming together to create this great work.

It’s still a work in progress, of course, but the foundations are strong, as strong as the deep roots many of us have planted in this land, with families being part of this land for generations.

We are not just inhabitants of Malaysia, though; we are its builders, caretakers, and future, and celebrating National Day is an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to this nation and to each other.

It’s a time to reflect on how the tapestry will grow – will it remain multihued and vibrant, reflecting all the races, colours, religions, and creeds that make up this country? Or will we allow people with short-sighted agendas and no vision turn it a deadly, destructive grey?

National Day is the time to realise that the answer lies in our hands. It is our responsibility to continue the work of our forefathers and ensure that Malaysia remains a beacon of unity and harmony in an increasingly fragmented world.

Think about this next Saturday on National Day.

Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!