Display of patriotism at Dataran Merdeka
I DECIDED to visit Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur in the evening of Aug 30 although I was fully aware that no special events had been arranged for the National Day celebration there due to the precautions put in place to stop the spread of Covid-19.
I expected to see only a handful of Malaysians there, but I was pleasantly surprised to see a huge crowd of all races and ages lining the entire road in front of the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad building and the areas adjacent to it.
The grass section of Dataran Merdeka was cordoned off, most probably to discourage mass gatherings.
Everyone present wore face masks and appeared to be thoroughly enjoying the ambience while savouring the Merdeka eve spirit.
Though no special shows had been organised, ordinary Malaysians were still drawn to the historic site and wanted to display their patriotic spirit.
An enterprising chap brought his car complete with loud audio speakers and played patriotic songs in every language, much to the enjoyment of the crowd.
At midnight, a loud blare of horns ushered Merdeka Day in. Everyone sang the Negaraku and more patriotic songs were played from the car.
For someone who has never attended any official Merdeka eve event before, I was rather exhilarated by this impromptu expression of patriotism by ordinary Malaysians.
Nobody persuaded them to come, nothing was offered to them in terms of gifts, presents or meals, yet they showed up in huge numbers, observed the standard operating procedures and thoroughly enjoyed themselves!
Such display of patriotism without any official urgings reinforces my long-held belief that Malaysians, if left on their own without any prodding from those with vested interests, can manage themselves well and have no qualms in interacting with each other peacefully irrespective of their race or religion.
Indeed, the future looks great for Malaysia!