Unity wristbands a reminder of sacrifices for independence

KUALA KANGSAR: The #AnakAnakMalaysia wristbands are more than just coloured accessories worn to signify unity, as Kuala Kangsar MP Datin Mastura Yazid will tell you.

The wristbands remind her of how women willingly gave their gold bangles and chains to fund Tunku Abdul Rahman’s trip to London to negotiate for the country’s independence.

“It was about 10 days ago when I came across a beautiful photo of students showing off their wristbands.

“It brought to mind the story of Tunku, who had no money to go to London to seek independence from the British 59 years ago.

“To me, these wristbands symbolise the day women, especially mothers, donated their bangles and other jewellery to help Tunku in his mission,” she told The Star.

Lending her support to the #AnakAnakMalaysia campaign, Mastura said she loved how it focused on the younger generation.

“We need to share the real meaning of Merdeka with them. We could lose this kemerdekaan (independence) if we take it for granted,” said Mastura, who in June won the by-election for Kuala Kangsar.

The seat was previously held by her late husband Datuk Wan Mohammad Khair-il Anuar Wan Ahmad, who perished in a helicopter crash in Sarawak on May 5.

Apart from her drive to instil patriotism in young people, Mastura also continues to promote English proficiency among her constituents.

“By mastering this global language, I believe they will go further in life,” said Mastura, who sponsored 10,000 copies of The Star for 29 schools recently.

She was at SMK Bukit Merchu recently for the handover of the newspapers and wristbands.

The MP called out “Saya Merdeka!” three times at the hall, followed by similar chants by the students.

“Saying ‘I am independent’ means so much more today than just saying ‘Merdeka’ because it comes from the soul,” she said.

Principal Nolita Abdul Rahim said she was grateful that Mastura had chosen her school as the venue for the newspaper sponsorship and wristband-distributing ceremony.

“Relating the story of Tunku before the students allowed them to know the sacrifices that were made then for today’s peace and harmony.

“And I hope that by wearing the wristbands, they will be reminded of it every day,” she said.

Form Four student Azidatul Sajidah Azman beamed as she put on her wristband while her schoolmate Muhammad Faqrul Idzmeer Azmi, 16, said he appreciated having the wristband as “it’s important to remember that the journey to gain independence wasn’t easy at all”.