Heartiest felicitations to all our Malaysian friends on their 57th Independence Day. On August 31, 1957, the Federation of Malaya gained its independence from the British. Malaysia today is a vibrant and modern multi-cultural country – in fact, it is a model of economic growth for other developing countries like Bangladesh.
For those of us who have lived in Malaysia, this great country will always hold a special place in our hearts. I was born in Malaysia and lived in Kuala Lumpur cumulatively for over a decade as an expatriate child and teenager. Every time I visit Malaysia, I realise it is not my “second home” but in fact “home” for a 3CK (third culture kid). There is no doubt that our core values have been shaped by our lives in Malaysia, including a deep appreciation for multicultural diversity (not to mention rendang, dumplings, and paratas, maybe all in the same meal).
I was lucky to grow up in the Malaysia of the 90s, characterised by growth, harmony, and unity under a visionary political leadership. Former Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad followed a development model of peace, stability, and continuity for national progress. Other developing countries, like Bangladesh, can do the same.
It has been a tough year for Malaysia, with the MH370 and MH17. I would like to dedicate my Merdeka wishes specifically for Malaysia Airlines, the national airliner. The all-familiar greeting after Malaysia Airlines lands in KL has always been extra special for me: “To all visitors, welcome to Malaysia; and, to all Malaysians, welcome home.” After all, I can identify with both groups addressed by the pilot.
Malaysia Airlines has just announced its restructuring plans to overcome its current woes. As a frequent traveller, I reiterate my loyalty to Malaysia Airlines. The fact is, MH has one of the best safety records in the world, notwithstanding the tragedies this year. It is has given us frat service, carrying us afar and bringing us back home, it is natural we stand by it during this difficult time. I am not giving up on MH, I hope others will do the same.
To all my Malaysian friends, I hope you will come together to celebrate your rich diversity and remarkable achievements as a nation. Having grown up in Malaysia, I have no doubt that the next generation of Malays, Chinese, and Indians will stand proud of their nation and consider themselves as Malaysians first. Malaysians must stand up against extremists in respective communities who want to divide the country and harm its social fabric. There are bigots in every society, but they must not get any political space.
Is everything perfect in Malaysia? Of course not. The truth is, there is no country in the world where everything is rosy, and that includes Malaysia. It is inevitable that there will be challenges in the nation-building process for any country, particularly the diverse ones. What is important is that the people must come together as a nation to address those challenges and emerge stronger from it.
I hope my Malaysian friends will look at the glass as half full rather than half empty – the future looks bright for you to build an even more inclusive and dynamic society, but you have to unlock the power in each and every one of you to make that happen. Malaysia must remain united amidst its diversity – you should never forget that multiculturalism isn't your weakness, but your greatest strength as a nation.
Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka!
Saya Cinta Malaysia!
