By Muhammad Aiman Naufal Abdullah
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 17 (Bernama) -- As the 76th National Day draws closer, more and more Jalur Gemilang flags can be spotted flying proudly in areas in Kuala Lumpur, reflecting the strong spirit of patriotism among Malaysians.
A Bernama survey at the Sri Perak Public Housing Project in Sentul found the national flag proudly adorning the residential area, particularly Block 35, following a community initiative to enliven the atmosphere ahead of Aug 31.
Block chief Muhammad Fuad Mahmud, 63, described the tradition of decorating the residential area as an annual initiative that must be preserved to instil historical awareness and patriotism, particularly among the younger generation.
“Things like this are important, especially for the younger generation. At the very least, they will know that when the flag is put up, something significant is about to happen,” he told Bernama here today.
Muhammad Fuad, who has never missed an opportunity to attend the National Day celebrations each year, regarded his presence at the celebrations as a manifestation of his pride and unwavering support for the country’s sovereignty.
“Every year, I go to Kuala Lumpur to watch the Merdeka Day celebrations. For me, it is a way for us to celebrate independence together and show our love for the country,” he said.
The patriotic spirit was also evident at Bazaar Jalan Melayu, where traders have begun displaying various creative Jalur Gemilang-themed accessories, further adding to the festive atmosphere ahead of the National Day celebrations.
Bazaar trader Syed Yusof Abdullah, 66, said sales of his Jalur Gemilang-patterned tanjak (traditional headgear) had received an overwhelming response, not only from locals but also foreign tourists looking to take one home as an exclusive souvenir.
“As Malaysians, we should have the spirit of independence. Through these sales, customers are not only buying something, but also experiencing the joy of freedom and appreciating the history of our homeland’s struggle, which was filled with challenges,” he said.
He said the younger generation should continue looking towards the future while appreciating the hardships endured by the nation’s fighters, and reminded them to always defend the country’s sovereignty against any form of “modern colonisation”.
“My hope for the next generation, especially young people, is that they will always look towards the future while appreciating what those before them have done, continue to safeguard their personal freedom and protect the country from any form of modern colonisation,” he said.
Themed “Malaysia MADANI: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati”, this year’s National Day celebrations will be held at Dataran Putrajaya.
-- BERNAMA