As the vibrant hues of our beloved Jalur Gemilang oscillate majestically against the vast expanse of the sapphire firmament, I find myself deeply ensconced in a reflective state of profound contemplation. The colours of our national flag - the brilliant red and white stripes, the luminous star, and the richly coloured crescent; All of them dance valiantly, exuding an aura of resilience and tenacity that is unmistakably Malaysian. This is #MalaysiaKita.
I am a Colourblind Malaysian
On the 31st of August 2023, we were not merely celebrating another Independence day. Rather, we Malaysians were commemorating a momentous milestone, the 66th year of our hard-won freedom. As we Malaysians look back on the decades that have passed, we must remember the struggles that were made by our ancestors. We must never take their selfless sacrifices that have allowed us to enjoy the freedom we have today for granted.
Love for Boleh-land: A Proud #MalaysiaKita Sentiments
The spirit within me surges with a potent cocktail of monumental pride, uncontainable joy, and a profound, all-encompassing love for my homeland-my "Boleh-land". The pride stems from the knowledge of how far we have come as a nation, the joy from the shared experiences and collective memories that we Malaysians have created, and the love from the understanding that this land, in all its diversity and complexity, is home.
This love that I have for Malaysia is never confined by ethnic boundaries. It is a force that effortlessly crosses and blurs such lines, making us one - Malaysians. Despite my ancestral roots reaching back to China, my individual identity is firmly and proudly established in being a Malaysian. Hereby, I proudly declare that I am never defined by where my ancestors came. In fact, I am defined by where my loyalty lies and where my heart belongs. It is Malaysia - my one and only home country.
Bangsa Malaysia: Identity Beyond Ethnic Boundaries
I am proud to call myself a Bangsa Malaysia, don't you? I am proud to proclaim that our country is a melting pot of different ethnicities, cultures, and traditions. It is undeniable that our Malaysia is the embodiment of unity in diversity. Our country is a very special nation where people from different backgrounds come together peacefully to form a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and shared values. It’s this diversity that makes us unique and gives us strength.
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My heart swells with pride for this "tanah air" (land) that I call home, for the harmony in diversity that it represents and for the undaunted spirit of its people. Let us always remember what makes us Malaysian. Let us all be colourblind to continue cherishing our shared heritage and strive for unity, peace, and prosperity for all.
A Conscious Decision Towards Colourblindness
When I assert that I am colourblind, my proclamation doesn’t pertain to a deficiency in distinguishing between the vibrant reds, the tranquil blues, or the lively greens that paint our world. It isn’t about a limitation in my visual spectrum, nor a physical inability to perceive the myriad hues that nature so generously bestows. Instead, it is an enlightened perspective that I have chosen to embrace wholeheartedly, a shift in mindset and perspective that transcends the realm of physical sight.
Seeing Beyond the Different Colours
This declaration of colourblindness since I was young is a conscious decision, one that stems from a place of deep understanding and respect for our shared experiences and common aspirations. It is my commitment to look beyond the conventional hues that typically delineate us — those of race, religion, and ethnicity — which often unfairly create divisions and perpetuate stereotypes.
Being colourblind, I choose not to see my fellow Malaysians through the lens of their racial or religious identities. I do not see them merely as Malays, Chinese or Indians, nor do I define them by the faith they choose to follow. These labels, I believe, while part of our identities, should never be the sole yardstick for understanding or evaluating an individual.
Our Share Identity of #MalaysiaKita
Instead, I perceive my fellow countrymen and women as integral components of an extensive #MalaysiaKita family unit. We are all bound together under the radiant canopy of a shared Malaysian identity - Bangsa Malaysia! This is an identity that is as diverse as it is unified. Our shared identity is not merely a fusion of different races or religions; it is an intricate mosaic of shared histories, collective memories, and intertwined destinies that make us uniquely Malaysian.
Being a Colourblind Malaysian is no mere nationalistic rhetoric; it is a reaffirmation of our shared values and mutual respect. It is a call to recognise our similarities rather than our differences. Being colourblind is about celebrating our shared experiences rather than dwelling on divisive issues. It is about recognising each other as equals, as fellow Malaysians with dreams and aspirations.
Acknowleding and Embracing our Differences
In this sense, being colourblind does not mean ignoring our differences. Rather, it means acknowledging these differences, embracing them, and then looking beyond them. It means seeing each other for who we truly are: members of one big family - Malaysians - united under the radiant canopy of our shared national identity.
Building a Harmonious Symphony of Shared Characteristics
Our school teachers have drummed this saying "Bersatu teguh, bercerai roboh" ever since we were in primary schools. This well-known adage, “United we stand, divided we fall,” is more than just a collection of words; it is a profound truth that captures the very essence of our Malaysian spirit. This saying, time-honoured and universally acknowledged, serves as an enduring reminder of the strength that comes from unity and the fragility that accompanies division.
The Ensemble of #MalaysiaKita National Symphony
In the grand orchestra of our nation, we Malaysians form a harmonious ensemble. We are akin to a symphony where each individual note, despite its distinctiveness, plays a vital role in creating a melodious and unified tune. Each of us, irrespective of our race, religion, or cultural background, is a unique note in this national composition. Yet when played together, we contribute to the creation of a beautiful symphony that resonates with the rich harmonies of unity.
Our unity extends beyond just shared spaces; it is deeply rooted in our collective identity. We stand united under the same national flag-Jalur Gemilang, its vibrant colours symbolising our diverse yet harmonious nation. We passionately sing the same national anthem-Negaraku, each verse echoing our shared history and common aspirations. Underneath the same star-studded sky, we nurture dreams, those of individual success and collective prosperity.
These dreams and aspirations — for peace, progress, and prosperity — are not just individual wishes but shared visions that bind us together. They serve as our guiding beacon, lighting our path forward. More importantly, they should outshine any potential disagreements or differences that may arise amongst us. In the end, it is these shared dreams and aspirations that define us as a nation and as a people.
Upholding our Malaysian Unity: Our Shared Guiding Principle
Therefore, let this mantra, “United we stand, divided we fall,” be more than just a saying. Let it be a principle that guides our actions and shapes our attitudes towards one another. Let it remind us of our shared responsibility to uphold unity and harmony in our diverse nation. For it is only when we stand together, respecting our differences while celebrating our commonalities, that we Malaysians can truly achieve the peace, progress and prosperity we all aspire for.
Celebrating Diversity: A Vibrant Mosaic of Cultural Diversity
It is crucial for us Malaysians to understand that unity does not necessitate uniformity. Embracing a collective identity does not mean obliterating our unique identities. Our joint identity as Malaysians doesn’t in any way erase or diminish our individual cultures, customs and traditions. Instead of diluting our individuality, it amplifies and celebrates it. It reinforces the importance of each cultural thread in the rich tapestry of our nation.
The Mosaic of #MalaysiaKita: Unity in Diversity
Our shared Malaysian identity gives rise to a colourful mosaic of cultural diversity. This diversity is not merely tolerated but celebrated with enthusiasm and respect. It stands as a proud hallmark of our nation, a testament to our ability to weave together various cultural strands into a vibrant and harmonious whole. Our unity in diversity is a shining example of multicultural co-existence and mutual respect.
The palpable excitement of the Chinese New Year, with its red lanterns, lion dances, and the joyous reunion of families, is not just a festival for one community but a national celebration where everyone partakes in the joy and prosperity that the occasion symbolises.
Festivals Bind us in Joy and Reverance
Similarly, the profound spirituality of Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of charity, transcends religious boundaries to become a celebration of self-reflection, gratitude, and community spirit. The beautiful sights of lit lanterns and the aroma of mouth-watering delicacies fill not just homes but also hearts with warmth and love.
The vibrant jubilation of Deepavali, the festival of lights, illuminates not just homes but also our collective consciousness. The rows of oil lamps, colourful kolams (rangolis), and the exhilaration of fireworks are more than just symbolic rituals; they reflect our shared aspiration for light over darkness, knowledge over ignorance, and hope over despair.
These festivals are not merely isolated community festivities; they are the threads that intertwine to create a richly detailed tapestry that embodies our uniquely Malaysian culture. They are shared experiences that enhance our understanding of each other’s traditions and customs, fostering mutual respect and appreciation.
A Rich Tapestry of Shared Experiences
These wonderful festivals go beyond our respective ethnicities, binding us all together in a shared rhythm of joy, reverence, and camaraderie. I would go as far to say that these festivals have become our vivid reminders of strength that lies in our diversity and the beauty that emerges when we weave these different threads together. While we may have different stories to tell, we are all part of the same vibrant narrative - the Malaysian story.
Our Independence: A Cherished Gem to Treasure
We Malaysians need to remember that the freedom that we savour today, the freedom to be colourblind and celebrate our similarities while simultaneously cherishing our diverse cultures, is more than just a privilege. It is akin to a priceless gemstone, one of priceless value and irreplaceable worth. This gemstone was not simply stumbled upon; it was won through hard-fought battles over six decades ago when we, as a nation, triumphantly declared our independence.
Preserving Our Precious Freedom
It’s a gemstone that has been carefully polished by the hands of time, shaped by the experiences of our ancestors and honed by the collective will of all Malaysians. It’s a gemstone that shines with the brilliance of unity, the lustre of diversity, and the sparkle of shared dreams and aspirations. This gemstone - our freedom to embrace and celebrate our diversity - is something that we must vigilantly guard, preserve and never trivialise.
As George Washington aptly stated, “Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth.” These words resonate profoundly with our national narrative. Our nation’s independence has served as the seed from which has burgeoned a magnificent tree of unity amidst diversity. This tree, nurtured by the fertile soil of freedom and watered by the rains of mutual respect and understanding, has grown tall and strong. Its roots run deep, anchoring us firmly to our shared values and common goals.
The Tree of Unity: Sheltering Diversity
Its branches spread wide, providing shelter to all who seek refuge under its canopy. Its leaves, diverse in shape and size, represent the different cultures that make up our nation. And its fruits are the shared successes and achievements that we collectively enjoy as Malaysians. Just as a tree continues to grow, spreading its branches and deepening its roots, so too does our unity amidst diversity. As we continue to nurture this tree with love, respect and understanding, it will continue to flourish, offering shade and sustenance to future Malaysian generations.
Therefore, as we reflect on our 66 years of independence, let us remember the priceless gemstone we have in our freedom. Let us remember the magnificent tree that has sprung from our liberty. And let us remember that it is our responsibility to protect this gemstone and nurture this tree for our grandchildren. For in doing so, we ensure that the legacy of our independence - unity amidst diversity - continues to thrive.
A Hymn to Unity and Independence Day Reflections
We Malaysians should passionately cherish and celebrate both our Independence Day (31st of August) and Malaysia Day (16th of September). On these significant days, it is crucial that we also acknowledge the challenges that threaten to undermine the unity and harmony we have so carefully nurtured. We must be vigilant against evil forces that seek to exploit divisions for personal or political gains. This includes greedy politicians and manipulative religious leaders who may seek to mislead and divide us for their own interests.
Divisive Tactics: The Threat to Our Unity
Inherited from our forefathers, our independence is a delicate, priceless treasure that we must handle with great care. The importance of our "Merdeka" lies not merely in the liberty that we are enjoying, but also in the responsibilities we must shoulder. One such responsibility is to protect our Malaysian freedom and unity from those who would exploit them, especially those ravenous "wolves" hiding in sheep's clothing.
It is a fact that many politicians in Malaysia put their personal ambitions and gains before our interests - the rakyat. We have seen time and again, how they have used divisive rhetoric and tactics to gain our votes. Similarly, leaders of false religious movements may seek to manipulate people’s faith, fostering division and discord under the banner of religion. These actions threaten to undermine our unity, turning our diverse society into a fragmented one.
However, we must remember that our strength lies in our unity, in the collective power of our "rakyat" Malaysia. As Malaysians, it is our duty to stand against such divisive tactics. We must scrutinise the actions and intentions of those who lead us, ensuring they align with the values that define us as colourblind Bangsa Malaysia.
Safeguarding Our Bangsa Malaysia
Hence, we the Bangsa Malaysia needs to wake up before we reach the point of no return! Those in power who have been abusing their positions and our trust need to be held responsible be it for their words or actions. A culture of transparency and accountability is the only way forward for all of us Malaysians. We must promote dialogue and understanding between different communities, countering hate speech and discrimination ignited by all these selfish politicians and evil religious charlatans.
As we look forward to Malaysia Day on the 16th of September, let us remind ourselves that unity in diversity isn’t merely our strength; it’s our defining identity. It is the shield that protects us from the divisive forces that I have aforementioned. Our Bangsa Malaysia unity is the bedrock upon which we stand tall as a dynamic, multi-ethnic country. So let us all be colourblind Malaysians and cherish this unity. All we Malaysians must work together to protect our unity at all costs to ensure it continues to thrive.
A Commitment to Colourblind Patriotism
In the immortal words of Mark Twain, “Patriotism is supporting your country all the time, and your government when it deserves it.” As we have revelled in our Independence day celebrations and look forward to Malaysia Day, let’s pledge to support our country, to contribute actively to its growth, and to safeguard its unity. Let’s remember that being ‘colourblind’ isn’t just about overlooking differences; it’s about celebrating and embracing them. May the spirit of being ‘colourblind’ guide us towards a harmonious and prosperous future for our beloved Malaysia.
Images credit: Shutterstock
This article about Malaysia Kita is so awesome! It's touching and inspiring. Happy Merdeka day to you!
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