Let’s embrace our diversity

MERDEKA – as Malaysians we all have this word implanted in us.

The theme for this year’s National Day is “Sayangi Malaysiaku” (Love My Malaysia) as announced by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

This recognises the fact that Malaysia consists of peace-loving citizens who love their country.

We are a diverse country with people of various cultures, races and religions having lived in harmony for more than six decades.

I was fortunate to grow up in a diverse environment. I lived in a flat and my neighbours were of different races.

We lived in harmony and often had open houses during festive occasions despite the cramped living space.

We are often told to have patriotism in our hearts but it is not just about flying your coun- try’s flag. It is also not about being a participant or a spectator at the annual National Day parade.

It is about doing your best for your birthplace, being a part of your nation’s continuous progress.

Patriotism is also about being concerned with what ails your country and doing something about it instead of letting someone else do the work. Merdeka means doing that without any fear of repercussions.

As Malaysia has just transitioned to a new government, let us put our differences aside and embrace this New Malaysia with one heart, one soul, and one mind.

Happy National Day to all Malaysians, and I love my Malaysia!

DARELL NONIS Seremban