‘We’re much better off than many’
PENAMPANG: For decades since it was formed on 16 September 1963, Malaysia has undergone remarkable development and enjoyed harmony nationwide, making it a prime example of a racial and cultural melting pot.
Despite the occasional incidents of conflict, Malaysians continue to live in peace, practising respect and tolerance for each other’s differences.
Sasha Shamilee, the sales and marketing director of Monsopiad Heritage Village, hopes such rapport will continue to be a reality for hundreds of years from now, to preserve what our forefathers have built.
With Malaysia Day celebrations fast approaching, Sasha says she is most grateful for the nation’s peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
“At the moment, there is definitely some disagreements, especially in politics, but I’m thankful there’s no war. We have peace and we can live together in harmony.
“Malaysia is largely made up of the two biggest religions in the world. Our community also comprises over 400 different tribes and languages, yet we are still living in peace.
“In 500 years from now, I hope things stay the same or get even better. If you were to compare us to other countries, we are much better off,” she says.
Sasha also expresses her hope to see the Kadazan culture prevail.
“There’s so much the younger generation doesn’t know or hasn’t seen when it comes to their culture.
“One of the main purposes of the Village is to teach the people about their culture because at the moment, many no longer care.
“For instance, the younger generation doesn’t know how to play the gong or perform the traditional dance.
"They don’t think it’s important anymore.
“But it is important to learn about our roots because it strengthens our identity as Malaysians,” she says.
Hard as it is to admit, Sasha concedes that many cultures are dying because youths no longer appreciate traditional elements in music, language, food and even transportation.
Nonetheless, Sasha believes efforts must be continually made to uphold cultural identity, lest it dies out.
“It should live on. In the next 200 or 300 years, our cultures should still be around. We have a lot of mixed marriages in our community and that can sometimes be an adverse factor.
“I, myself, come from a mixed heritage of Pakistani and Kadazan. I don’t speak much Kadazan, but if I don’t learn to, it will die out eventually. The Kadazan is the largest ethnic group in Sabah, so why not preserve its culture?”
As part of the annual #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign led by Star Media Group together with property developer Eco World Development Group Berhad (EcoWorld), Monsopiad Heritage Village hosted a video shoot of the campaign in conjunction with the upcoming Malaysia Day celebrations.
Wrist bands were distributed in other locations such as the Donggongon market, Gaya Street and Padang Merdeka area to foster the spirit of patriotism and unity as we celebrate the nation’s milestone.