What Malaysia Day means to us

MORE should be done to help people understand just why Malaysia Day is so important — that’s the consensus among the people interviewed by The Star.

They believe we should all be more sensitive, open our hearts and respect each others’ religion, culture and lifestyle.

Tan Chor Dean

Tan Chor Dean, 22

Selangor-born, Student

As a Malaysian, I understand the significance and beauty of Malaysia Day, a day that fills our hearts with pride and gratitude. It is the day which the country was formed, bringing together Sabah and Sarawak with Peninsular Malaysia. As we reflect on our history, we are reminded of the sacrifices made by our forefathers to bring us this far — a united and harmonious Malaysia, and as such I think more emphasis should be placed on the significance of this day. Our nation’s rich tapestry is woven with the threads of various cultures, traditions and beliefs, creating a vibrant mosaic that defines who we are as Malaysians. Let us cherish our multicultural heritage and embrace one another regardless of our backgrounds. I believe we should raise our flag with pride, and honour the shared dreams and aspirations of our fellow countrymen. May we never take for granted the beauty surrounding us and the warmth of our people’s hearts.

Ethan Zachary Bonn

Ethan Zachary Bonny, 20

Sabahan of Bidayuh Padawan and Kadazan mix Dusun descent, Student

Malaysia Day is one of the most vibrant and significant events in the country, where people from diverse ethnicities and cultures come together to celebrate our unity and the richness of Malaysia’s heritage. It is a day that holds great importance as it honours the sacrifices made for the nation. However, I am a little upset that people’s enthusiasm to celebrate Malaysia Day depends on their states, cities or districts. I live in Sabah but moved to Peninsular Malaysia to continue my tertiary education. Each state in Malaysia has its own unique culture and customs, and moving meant adapting to new social norms. Initially, it took me some time to understand and embrace these differences, but it was a rewarding experience to immerse myself in a diverse cultural setting. While some in the peninsula do show familiarity and respect towards the traditions in Sabah and Sarawak, a small percentage of people may see it as sensitive and may disagree or dislike the traditions. I hope moving forward, that everyone can learn to better respect each other’s tradition, culture and religion.

Patrick Louis

Patrick Louis, 58

Ipoh-born, Shipping/logistics manager

As Malaysia Day was declared a public holiday, there is now a growing awareness among Malaysians on the significance of this special day. I am proud to celebrate the occasion that brought forth a multi-race and multi-religious nation. The struggle of intimidation and control by foreign nations was so severe that this nation went through much pain in the fight for independence and unity. I take this opportunity to thank the freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives for the benefit of the future generations to enjoy and appreciate. It is my wish that the Satu Malaysia spirit prevails and is practised by everyone, that there will be more tolerance and an attitude of sharing and forgiving among all Malaysians. I urge the government to carry out more activities on Malaysia Day to help the people and especially young Malaysians to understand the true meaning of the celebration. We should help our youth get a deeper understanding of Malaysia Day so that they do not see it as just another public holiday, but instead develop an interest in the unique heritage of all races in Malaysia.

Azman Hezry

Azman Hezry, 23

Kuala Lumpur-born, Student

I personally wish we are educated more on the cultures, customs and experiences of people of Sabah and Sarawak. I feel it’s important to celebrate a historical event such as Malaysia Day, as many might not actually know the reason behind the celebration and I think it should be more prominently explained or highlighted on the same level as our National Day. Many in the peninsula are largely unfamiliar with traditions of Sabahans and Sarawakians aside from what we are taught in our Civics textbook. The main mentions are usually about the Ibans and Kadazans, which is a shame as there’s lots more information that has been left out.

Omanisha Sidda

Omanisha Sidda, 22

Selangor-born, Psychology graduate

I only learned the difference between Malaysia Day and National Day during high school. Even in school, we celebrated National Day more than Malaysia Day. As a resident of Peninsular Malaysia, I am slowly learning about Sabah and Sarawak through my friends whom I met in university, and people I’ve met by chance. I am realising how much I do not know about Sabah and Sarawak although both states are part of Malaysia. Malaysians have this tendency to be extremely accepting and welcoming to most foreigners, which is something we are well-known for. I wish we are also as welcoming and accepting towards traditions and cultures from Malaysian states across the South China Sea.

Ervina James

Ervina James, 43

Sabahan of Dusun descent, Lecturer

Back in Sabah, Malaysia Day is widely celebrated just like any other public holiday. To be honest, Sabahans and Sarawakians love celebrating festive seasons that are closer to their ethnicity. I think it’s great that there is acknowledgement that Sabah and Sarawak played a great role in the formation of the country, but it is also bittersweet how hard both the states fought for this recognition. Most Malaysians in the peninsula are familiar with commercialised parts of the two states but I think it would be nice if some do a little bit of in-depth reading on our traditions. I hope harmony is practised nationwide. Sabahans and Sarawakians prioritise religion in our culture, traditions and way of life. And I feel the best way to preserve our way of life and traditions is by respecting each other.