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.
