August 31 marks the Independence Day of Malaysia, and this year, we are celebrating the 65th anniversary of the historical day!
Despite being free from the colonisers, Prime Minister Dato Seri Ismail Yaakob has a message for his beloved Keluarga Malaysia. He said that we risk being colonised again if the values of Independence Day, which the fallen heroes had fought for, are not preserved.
In this modernised era, Ismail said that colonisation does not come in physical form anymore.
“The modern form of colonialism is emerging now in the economic, technological, and cultural fields.”
Ismail described it as “very dangerous” as it is the easiest way to rob the mind and identity of the nation, which is capable of destroying a country.
Patriotism is the only key
Can we still defend the values of peace, security, and independence to develop and maintain the sovereignty of the country? It’s still not too late for that.
Ismail insisted that only the love for the country will allow all the people to continue to work together and unite which will make the above possible.
“We are all one family. The Keluarga Malaysia that connects the heritage.”
He added that the blessing of independence that is experienced today is also the result of the struggle of drops of blood, sweat and tears, not to mention the countless lives have that were loss in achieving independence.
During his speech last night (August 30), Ismail also sent a message to the youth, in hope they will preserve the independence of the country.
“Mat Kilau once said, the fight must go on. The youth, especially, should not let the country fall into the hands of the colonisers.”
Happy Independence Day, Malaysia! Regardless of where we are and what we do, we simply cannot deny the facts that we are Malaysians. Do you agree with the Prime Minister’s take on this matter?
Also read: What Does National Day Mean To You? Here’s What Malaysians Across Different Generations Said