A BLOG: WHAT DOES IT MEANS TO BE PATRIOTIC?

 “Freedom is the open window through which pours the sunlight of the human spirit and human dignity.” This is a very popular saying from Herbert Hoover that reflected the meaning of Independence Day directly and it shows the significance of achieving the country’s freedom in order to get better lives. Even though that particular country has successfully achieved its freedom, the community or the society itself must have high patriotism in themselves as a sign of respect towards their country. So what is the exact meaning of the word “patriotic”? Patriotism refers to showing or having great pride and love for one’s country. The zealously and unselfishly devoted to the service of one’s country. But how do we show ourselves as patriotic people? There are more ways to express ourselves as patriotic people than just a post on social media.

              DISCOVER ABOUT THE HISTORY

Discovering more about the history of our country is one of the famous ways to disseminate patriotism in ourselves. As it is easy to access nowadays to get any information on the Internet about our country, thus people will use this opportunity to search and read informative information to get to know their country in deep. Discovering more about our leaders, landmarks, traditions, films, literature, and culture will enable us to become better citizens. I could say that based on my experience being a Malaysian since I was born, I realized that there is a plethora of knowledge about Malaysia I did not know in the first place. Being a Malaysian without knowing the full history of my own country just does not make any sense. That was when I decided to start searching and reading about the history of Malaysian either on the Internet or in books. After knowing thoroughly about Malaysian history, the feeling of responsibility to protect my country urges in me. This experience really has taught me the significance to have patriotism in ourselves as it will not benefit to the country but also the citizens' prosperity.

              SHOWING RESPECT

Every country has its own respective identity that is usually represented in the form of a symbol. For instance, Malaysia has a designated national flag, “Jalur Gemilang”, a national coat of arms, a national flower, and a national anthem “Negaraku”. These symbol of identity that represents a country must be interpreted and respected by the citizens of the country. Not only respecting these national identities, but it is a common courtesy. But how do we show the respect needed? I often see parents teaching their children to stand up straight when the national anthem is enshrined. Teachers also make some contributions to developing students’ character by inserting some patriotic elements during classes. By doing this, it helps to nurture responsibilities and morals to become an individual that can contribute to the country.

In conclusion, there are many more ways to express ourselves as patriotic people. Every country has positive and negative qualities, and loving a nation does mean we should ignore its shortcomings. It’s perfectly acceptable to love our country for its cultural heritage, successes, and unique character despite its shortcomings by emphasizing the positive and working towards a better future for all who call this nation home.

WHAT DOES IT MEANS TO BE A MALAYSIAN

Blink, blink, blink! Yesterday was Malaysia's Independence Day, 31st August 2022. This indicates that our country has already reached 65 years since our first prime minister Tunku Abdul Rahman shouted the word 'MERDEKA' seven continuous times. Jalur Gemilang flag keeps being flown along the streets, houses, and even cars. People wearing Jalur Gemilang-themed costumes make my patriotism passion increase significantly. Why does Malaysia be so different and unique than any other country like the United States of America or Canada? What does it mean to be a Malaysian actually?  

    MALAYSIA AS A MULTICULTURAL COUNTRY

From my point of view, being a Malaysian means that I grow up in a multicultural environment. I really love the identity of Malaysia being portrayed by the community. As we all know that Malaysia consists of multiple races such as Malays, Chinese, Indians, Iban, and many more. Everyone here can comprehend and accept the ethnics cultures and languages that makes us united as one. Even though we come from very different backgrounds, we used the same language in our daily basis communication which is Bahasa Malaysia. This diversity makes our culture and beliefs vary from each other but the fact that we're living in one community, this has created the value of empathy and acceptance in ourselves. The hard earn values are what make our country unique and different.

    MALAYSIA’S CELEBRATION TO NATIONAL DAY

Never forget that the date of 16th of September is also an important date for Malaysia, especially for the Sabahans and the Sarawakians. It is the day when Malaysia was formed as a country. We always remember and celebrate festively on the 31st of August but the events that happened on the date 16th of September are actually why we're now called Malaysians. So I think that being a Malaysian is to value and cherish the history of Malaysia and acknowledges that Malaysia is a harmonious country. Every date and celebration in particular races, we need to celebrate equally without discriminating against their cultures and religions.

    MALAYSIA’S UNIQUE AND VARIETY OF CUISINES

In addition to our multicultural and multiracial nation, being a Malaysian has indeed sharpened my tastebuds. Having various types of cuisines from each ethnic have opened my eyes about what the country has offered to me. Cuisines such as Nasi Lemak and Rendang are examples of Malay food but there are many ways and techniques used to cook the cuisines resulting in fusion in taste. Kelantanese usually loves cook their meals sweeter when Negeri Sembilan’s people like their meals spicier. Mooncakes and Mandarin are Chinese traditional cuisines whereas Putu Mayam and Muruku are Indians. The plethora of choices of cuisines offered by the Malaysians did opened my palates and enjoying the best here.

As to conclude, I would say that I am proud to be a Malaysian as to the benefits and the beauty Malaysia had offered to me. I can say that unity is what makes our country harmonious, peace and prosperity despite having a multicultural nation. We need to educate the younger generations for always be grateful and thankful because of what we have now. Maybe in the future, there will be more challenges and obstacle to overcome in order to maintain Malaysia, a unique country.