Malaysia Turns 57

  On 31st August 1957, Malaysia had gained its Independence. Our first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman stood at the podium of Stadium Merdeka in front millions of Malaysians as well as British representatives and leaders, shouting the word "Merdeka" seven times. This year's theme for our Independence Day is Malaysia: Di Sini Lahir Sebuah Cinta (Malaysia: Here Where Love is Born). Before that, let's take a step back in time how Malaysia gained its Independence.

  On February 1956, Tunku Abdul Rahman led leaders from various parties to London to have an agreement with the British to give Malaysia independence. The British gave Malaysia its Independence on 31st August 1957 which is 57 years ago today. Tunku declared the independence of our country at Bandar Hillir, Malacca. The whole nation was so excited that Malaysia is finally free from the British after many years of ruling.

   Malaysia is a multiracial country where its people are called Malaysians live in harmony disregard of religion or background of one's individual. In majority, Malaysia has three races there are Malay, Chinese and Indian while in East Malaysia, they have Kadazandusun and Iban as well as orang asli. Besides that, Malaysia is also a multi festive country where Malaysians celebrate in harmony. These festivals are Hari Raya Puasa or Aidlifitri, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, Christmas and the Harvest Festival just to name a few.

  The Malaysian flag is the Jalur Gemilang or Stripes of Glory. It consists of four colours, which are red, white, blue and yellow. Each of these colours represents its own uniqueness. Red represents the bravery and courage. White represents purity while yellow represents the rulers of the country and finally blue represents unity in Malaysians. As we all know, the flag has 14 stripes, one crescent moon along side with the 14 pointed star with the blue background to finish the touch. Each stripe represents each state in Malaysia. For your information Malaysia has 13 states including its Federal Territory which adds to a total of 14 states. 

  Malaysia is rich in its Historical sites which became an attraction of tourists from all over the world. One of the popular historical sites is Malacca's Jonker Street which is also known as The World Heritage City. Furthermore, the Pearl of Orient also known as Penang has a variety of tourist attractions. There are the Kek Lok Shi Temple, the snake temple just to name a few. Another uniqueness about Malaysia is the sandy beaches such as Pulau Redang , Pulau Tioman, Pulau Langkawi, where tourists can have fun in the sun. What's more they can enjoy the five star hotel!

  57 years had passed, Malaysians are living harmony as a big family. As the younger generation, we have to strive hard and achieve success no matter what comes in our way. Happy 57th Birthday Malaysia. Here where love is truly born. I'm proud to be Malaysian ! Merdeka !

 extract from iact.edu.my