Why did Tunku shout “Merdeka!” seven times and not six? Seven was regarded by many Malays of the time and even now by some Hindus as a significant number. Was “merdeka” a common Malay word for independence or freedom? I have seen this so described. Of course, today it is a common enough word to mean independence or freedom but it is a Sanskrit word chosen and made popular by Tunku as a more exact word for independence than the traditional Malay word, “bebas”.
Why the open hand? Previous to this, Tunku had shouted “Merdeka!” with his right arm up-raised and his right hand clenched into a fist. It denoted an unfinished struggle. Tunku had explained that the fist would remain until independence was achieved. Thus on Aug 31, 1957, the right hand was unclenched as Tunku shouted “Merdeka!” to the jubilant crowd.
-extracted from The Star Online, dated Sunday 26, 2007
What does Merdeka mean to you? What does 31st August mean to you? Do you still have that patriotic feeling inside? Sadly but true, this is what it has become year after year...
MERDEKA! MERDEKA! Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka! merdeka!
The voices of TRUE PATRIOTISM and TRUE LOVE for the country has decreased and still is decreasing. I have been born and raised in this country for 22 years and honestly speaking, I don't feel anything during this time of the year. Not even a single heart beat of patriotism. Ask yourself truthfully, how do you actually feel about this date, 31st August.
For us the younger generations of Malaysians, it can be hard for us to feel something without first having to experience it. This is how the society has been all these years. We will not learn to appreciate if we do not experience the loss first. Having said so, it will be difficult for the younger generations to actually grasps what the true meaning of Merdeka really is. Many will poorly define the meaning of Merdeka and thus, that is why we see SO MANY SOCIAL ISSUES happening right now!
So how will we ever know what the true meaning of Merdeka is? In my opinion, we will NEVER KNOW. Unless, some tragedy strikes upon us once again. No, I'm not trash talking but this is the fact. Like what I have said, we will not learn to appreciate if we do not experience it first hand.
How will we ever know what the true meaning of Merdeka is, when all we see in the media are news about Discrimination, Racial Issues, Robbery, Gang Fights, Bad-mouthing and even MORE RACIAL ISSUES?! People who have done the previously said might have just interpreted the meaning of Merdeka wrongly.
(click to read)
What does Merdeka mean? Can someone tell me because I really do not know. After that, can someone please explain to me the meaning of 1Malaysia too? I can't find it in my dictionary.
-a person who is lost in Malaysia
