Merdeka reflections of ‘anak Malaysia’

I WAS 12 years old when I stood at Stadium Merdeka on the rainy morning of Aug 31, 1957 to see and hear Malaya’s first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman shout “Merdeka” seven times. The fact that I attended that historic event has been a source of pride, humility, and honour in my life.

Alhamdulillah, at 78 years old, I am blessed with the fortune of celebrating the 66th anniversary of our independence today.

On this occasion, I am compelled to reflect on and share the journey of our country’s “freedom” as encapsulated by the keramat (sacred) word “Merdeka”, which every Malaysian of whatever racial origins and heritage must appreciate, protect, and cherish.

This South-East Asian (Nusantera) part of the world possesses an untold wealth of human settlements with unique multicultural histories and heritage that may even surpass other known world civilisations.

The independence of Malaya from British colonialism in 1957 was the climax of commitments and efforts by our forefathers from diverse communities who lived, worked, and fought for the ultimate well-being of the people of many ethnicities, religious beliefs and social strata.

Their efforts were based on their belief in a society built on social justice, acceptance, tolerance and respect; and a nation that values our natural differences.

My police officer father, Abdul Majid Ismail, was the liaison officer for the committee involved in drafting the Constitution of Malaya with the Reid Commission (1956 – 1957). He worked with other civil servants, including (Tan Sri) Abdul Kadir Shamsuddin.

This has given me further reason to appreciate and respect the invaluable contributions made by those involved in fighting for Malaya’s independence. It is most appropriate that we remember them with gratitude today.

Throughout my life, all my aspirations and actions have been aimed at elevating, in whatever small ways I can, the harmonious well-being of the diverse communities of this country.

I was at Stadium Merdeka and Stadium Negara over the last weekend with about 100 participants of a sketching competition to document the relationship between these two historic buildings and the new Merdeka Tower 118, which will be the world’s second tallest building when it is fully completed.

It was a most nostalgic moment when I stood on the very spot in the stadium where I had been in 1957. It brought back many memories of growing up in Kuala Lumpur with my multiracial schoolmates at Pasar Road English School and Victoria Institution, and our exposure to diverse social activities, art and hobbies.

These childhood experiences evolved into my architectural career, as evidenced by the variety of buildings designed and built in reflection of contentment and gratitude for the opportunities afforded to me for nation-building.

Notwithstanding the many commendable sociopolitical and economic transformations and achievements by Malaysia, unpleasant changes have inevitably happened too.

But we must always remember and ensure that our human dignity (maruah) is protected and never compromised.

This essence in life is embodied within a Malay proverb: “Maruah manusia perlu dijaga, dan maruah tidak boleh dijualbeli atau digadai (Dignity must be protected, and dignity must not be traded or pawned).”

This is the fundamental truth in the context of nation-building, and within a global existence; we must always be cautious of the threats, trials and tribulations that constantly confront, and can confuse our people until we risk losing sight of this truth.

Critical thinking with respect and inclusivity of all Malaysians should be uppermost in our quest for survival, success and accomplishment, because “without our past references, there is no present and future”.

Heartfelt congratulations to all Malaysians on this auspicious 66th anniversary of our independence. May Allah SWT sustain, bless and protect our beloved nation.

Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka! from an anak Malaysia!

DATUK DR HAJEEDAR ABDUL MAJID

Past president, Pertubuhan Akitek Malaysia (PAM)

Past president, International Council on Monuments and Sites Malaysia (Icomos)