EVERY year, as August approaches, Malaysia begins to glow with familiar sights and sounds. The Jalur Gemilang waves proudly from cars, shopfronts, and balconies, patriotic songs resurface on the radio, and social media fills with nostalgic reflections of Merdeka. For a few weeks, patriotism feels alive, almost tangible, pulsing through neighbourhoods, offices, and classrooms. Yet, when the parades end and the flags are folded away, the spirit often fades into the background until Malaysia Day comes again on Sept 16.
This cycle prompts a crucial question: Is patriotism meant to be seasonal, tied to symbols and celebrations, or should it instead be a steady rhythm woven into our daily lives? To answer this, we must look beyond pageantry and discover patriotism in the quieter, enduring choices that shape our nation.
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