The Independence of Malaysia
The independence of Malaysia is different from much of the independence of other countries. What makes it so different? It is a peaceful independence achieved by holding talks with the British. No other country has ever done that before Malaysia. Addtionally, the Malaysian independence was realised by three people with different culture and religion. It is amazing how independence was gained that way. On the glorious day of 31 August 1957, Allahyarham Tunku Abdul Rahman proudly declared the independence of Malaya (now Malaysia) by shouting out “Merdeka” seven times at the Merdeka Stadium.
Since that day onwards, the people of Malaysia promised to renew the political, economical and social structure in order to reduce the gap among the society. It is no easy job as there are many challenges ahead. The independence became unstable when the 13 May tragedy occured, caused by racial conflicts. Fortunately, the problem was overcomed immediately, ensuring the independence is unjeopardised. Measures are taken but success comes from individuals. How one acts can affect the whole nation.
As time flies, the danger seems to have extinct, but it lurks beyond the naked eyes. Younger generations tend not to bother the importance of independence anymore, not only in Malaysia but other countries as well. This would cause them to fall prey to the superpowers. Colonization could happen economically and even socially in some parts of the world. Independence should be maintained no only externally, but also internally into the minds of the people. The effects of this agenda which may jeopardise our independence could be our lack of learning, egoism, seggregation and political struggle. If this phoenomena worsen, the independence will extinct.
Therefore, we, as the younger generation and citizens of Malaysia, must protect our country from any harmful sources. We should work hard together to gain superiority and not to be left behind. Though education plays an important role, but it will only be successful the people are willing to contribute and sacrifice. The quality of independence is indirectly proportional to the action taken by its people to maintain and strenghten it.
Independence is not a joke. When it’s gone, it’s the end. If that happens, we will suffer a lot from humiliation and discrimination. We don’t want history to repeat itself. Therefore, we must always be prepared to protect our country. We must endure the saying “From the fall of Malacca, we raise Malaysia!”.
On 31 August 2003, Malaysia will celebrate its 46th independence day. Let us all hold our hands, celebrate it together and pray for the longevity and prosperity of our motherland. We all should let out our voices by shouting “Merdeka!” and enjoy together all the hard work our forefathers have done for us. Malaysia will continue to be an independent country till the end of the world. Long live Malaysia!