JELEBU, Aug 24 (Bernama) -- For the past 25 years, Abdul Karim Abdul Rahman has maintained a cherished tradition of decorating the grounds of his century-old ancestral home with the Jalur Gemilang as National Day approaches, reflecting his enduring patriotic spirit.
This year, Abdul Karim, 83, and his wife, Aini Mad Zin, 75, adorned the nearly 0.4-hectare compound of their home in Kampung Kemin with almost 30 Jalur Gemilang flags.
For the retired couple, the house is more than just a home. It holds special significance for Aini, who grew up there with her five siblings, prompting them to preserve the property and its original character.
Despite their advancing age, the couple continue the annual tradition, which began when they returned to their hometown 25 years ago after living in Kuala Lumpur for nearly three decades.
“Each Jalur Gemilang displayed holds its own significance, as it reminds us of the struggles and sacrifices made by past generations to liberate the country from colonial rule. Decorating the grounds with the flag has become an annual must-do for my wife and me,” he told Bernama.
Abdul Karim said that after moving back to the village following their retirement, the couple carried out several renovations to make the house more comfortable for their four children and five grandchildren, while preserving its original structure.
He said life in the village was much more peaceful, allowing them to spend their time gardening and tending to their durian orchard.
For Abdul Karim, the sight of the Jalur Gemilang fluttering around his home not only brightens the surroundings but also symbolises his love for the country and gives him a deep sense of satisfaction.
He said the spirit of patriotism should be nurtured within families and passed on to younger generations, particularly during National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations.
“I hope my children will continue this tradition and instil a love for the country in the next generation. To me, flying the Jalur Gemilang is not merely about enlivening the celebrations; it serves as a reminder of our history,” he said.
Meanwhile, Norfaizah Abdul Karim, 45, said her parents chose to return to the village after retirement to enjoy a quieter life away from Kuala Lumpur while turning the ancestral home into a gathering place for the family.
The third of four siblings said her parents enjoyed decorating the compound with the Jalur Gemilang as it brightened the home and allowed them to spend their time on meaningful and creative activities.
-- BERNAMA