Merdeka is a historical and meaningful moment for many Malaysians. However, it is merely awaited as a public holiday in these modern times. We at Be Smarts hope this blog of ours reminds you of all the moments we can recollect on our Independence Day. We will start with the basics moving on to the celebrations we had in our schools.
When is Merdeka celebrated?
It is celebrated every year on the 31st of August.
What does Merdeka Day mean?
The independence day of Malaya. It marks the Malayan Declaration of Independence on the 31st of August 1957. There are many other ways of calling this particular day, such as national day and hari Kebangsaan.
What does the word ‘Merdeka’ mean?
‘Merdeka’ means independence or freedom in Indonesian and Malay languages. The word ‘Merdeka’ was derived from the Sanskrit word ‘maharddhika’, which means wealthy, successful and mighty.
Why is it important to celebrate Merdeka Day?
Merdeka shouldn’t be considered another public holiday where we wake up late and enjoy brunch at an Instagram-worthy restaurant/ cafe. Merdeka undoubtedly has more history to it. It is an opportunity for older generations to explain to younger generations how our country became independent. Independence Day is unique because it honours the bravery and passion of the patriotic people who battled for our country’s independence. In celebrating Merdeka, we also celebrate our differences, similarity, struggles, development, and most importantly, unity.
Who is Malaya’s Father of Independence, and why is he?
Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, more fondly known as Tunku, is our country’s Father of Merdeka and also known as Bapa Kemerdekaan in Malay. When Tunku saw that the Malayan people were prepared, he held constitutional negotiations and established an independent commission in London in early January 1956. This opened the way for the country’s independence.
On the 8th of February 1956, Tunku’s 53rd birthday, the Independence Agreement was signed, capping the process leading to independence. On the 3rd of June 1957, more than 2000 people came to receive Tunku and commemorate his return from London. Upon arrival, Tunku announced the news that Malaya would become independent on the 31st of August 1957. Citizens rejoiced and celebrated like never before when they heard this memorable announcement.
When, where and how was the first Merdeka celebrated?
On the 31st of August 1957, Tunku, the first Prime Minister of Malaya, shouted “Merdeka!” seven times consecutively as a rallying exclamation at the Merdeka Stadium, Kuala Lumpur, hailed by the crowd. From that moment on, Malaya was considered independent.
The National Archives of Malaysia (NAM) state that the audience of about 20000 people, including Malay royalties, members of the newly constituted government cabinet, and the general public. After Tunku read the Federation of Malaya’s Declaration of Independence, the audience’s response marked a meaningful occasion and the end of the British rule of Malaya. The ‘dua’ or prayer was read, followed by the hoisting of Jalur Gemilang, the Malayan flag, and Negaraku, the national anthem, sung aloud proudly by the audience. One hundred and one cannon shots were fired to honour the historical event.
Why is it the independence of Malaya and not Malaysia?
Well, before independence, our beloved country was known as Malaya. It became Malaysia only in 1963. Stay tuned for our upcoming post on Malaysia Day.
How can we show our pride as Malaysians?
Decorate your surroundings with ‘Jalur Gemilang’
Soaring the Jalur Gemilang is one of the simple ways to express affection for your country. We can display the Malaysian flag in as many places as possible, including your home, office, and vehicle. The flag’s colours can also be used to decorate your surroundings. We can wave flags of different sizes, from the size of a cake topper to that of a pole. In essence, flags are effective symbols of nationality and patriotism.
Support local sellers
Most retail establishments hold a Merdeka sale where you may buy goods for a lower price throughout Malaysia. Along with discounts on merchandise, eateries also give away a tonne of food. After all, this is a holiday, so why not overindulge at local food festivals? It’s also an excellent time to use the official Merdeka hashtag on Instagram to showcase your favourite Malaysian dishes.
Attend the parade in Merdeka Stadium, where Tunku himself celebrated our nation’s very first Merdeka day
The Merdeka on-ground historical celebrations will take place in Dataran Merdeka. The element that would genuinely complete this experience is being able to see the event take place on the streets. It’s the sense of nationalism from joining other Malaysians in celebrating a significant national holiday. You feel a strong sense of belonging just by being on Malaysian grounds and watching iconic moments come to life. Now is the ideal time that the older generation should consider taking children out to celebrate such an important day.
