National Day-Patriotism?

Well, I just attended the state-level national day parade. Yup, I marched this morning, in batik for the first time. Hey, this is an once-in-a-lifetime experience, man! (although I didn't really enjoy it much.) Erm, did I forget to mention that the batik is free? That's fabulous because I heard that each batik specially tailored cost more than RM60!

This year, the "Merdeka" atmosphere seems to be dull. Cars with "umpteen" flags on the bonnet seems to be disappearing. I can hardly feel the patriotic mood I used to during past Merdeka celebrations.

Months ago, during my English tuition, the teacher just popped out a question when we're discussing on an essay about National Service. "Do you love your country?" Hmm...do I love my country? I can't help thinking that question over and again.

Yes, I do love my country. But, for certain things, I just have to make my stand although this may contradict with my love for the nation.

When I was small, I will always plead my father to bring me to the national day parade. When I was small, national anthem was my favorite tune. And the list goes on...

But later, that feeling seems faded when I grown up. Maybe it's not apparent, but I knew it in my heart.

Anyway, I will still be saying that oath: "Saya berikrar akan sentiasa memberi serta menumpukan taat setia yang tidak berbelah bahagi terhadap negara Malaysia yang saya cintai..."

Happy Independence Day, my beloved Malaysia!

P/S: By the way, I found this interesting short article by Tan Hui Yong in today's New Straits Times.

Stinking toilets, road rage, double parking, queue jumping, littering, Malaysian time. But what make Malaysia truly unique are: Open house, cheap yummy food; friendly, warm people; political stability, pasar malam, bargaining, 24-hour mamak stalls, religious freedom, public holidays, balik kampung, friends and family. MALAYSIA will always be my home.