Being an Anak Malaysia means having the freedom to speak, to be heard and to participate as a Malaysian. I always remember Tunku Abdul Rahman's iconic sevenfold cry of “Merdeka” on 31st August 1957, remains the foundational vocal expression of freedom. The National Parades of grand marches at Dataran Merdeka feature flag-raising ceremonies, the national anthem Negaraku, the various uniform (armed forces & civilian staffers, schoolchildren showcases. The Visual and Civic Decor of historic arches, illuminated public & private buildings, and commemorative first-day stamp issues visually mark the jubilation of the era. Cultural Diversity of traditional dances, community feasts & local carnivals reflect the multi-ethnic harmony and shared identity.
The pictorial coffee table book, Expressions of Merdeka Malaysia by Honorary Fellow Institut Masa Depan Malaysia (MASA) who is the former Media Prima Chairman, Dato' Seri Abdul Mutalib Razak, preserves these historical expressions. It compiles archival newspaper cuttings, vintage photographs, and unique local celebrations - such as bull-fighting contests in Selangor, and traditional Portuguese dances in Melaka - to remind younger generations of the nation's path to sovereignty. The book depicts the journey taken by then Federation of Malaya to its historical independence & the challenges beyond.
At a forum for students and youth leaders held at MASA, Dato' Seri Abdul Mutalib said “Reading this book, with its well-documented notes, allows any Malaysian or anyone interested in her history to understand the turmoil and inspiration of the Rakyat in the days when we decided to part ways with our colonial masters.” He has written this book and published it for the benefit of the younger generations. He also authored “The Malayan Emergency” book.
I found the two books as a rare gem and a must-have for anyone interested in local history. These books should be read, kept and shared for all of us to appreciate sacrifices by our elders before us to create the life & freedom we now have. Expression of Merdeka Malaysia is now price at RM100 per book.
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