MALAYSIA Day marks a time where we look and celebrate the country for everything that it is, flaws and all.
Whether we are apologetic or critical of our shortcomings in the context of social change, part of growth is all about taking pride in strengths and accepting weaknesses for brighter days.
Here’s what Malaysia’s comedians have to say when they look at Malaysia Day…
Joanne Kam
“Can we get more ‘Bomba content’ for Malaysia Day? It’s clear by now that there must be a parade every time we celebrate local festivities where part of the spotlight goes to the abang-abang(s).
“But in all seriousness, I love Malaysia Day because it is to celebrate everything that is Malaysian. I even have friends who have moved out of the country, residing abroad for years but they still call themselves Malaysian.
“A lot of times there is a tug of war of sorts where most of us don’t like what is going on but there are so many things to be grateful for. We may not be proud of the state of things but we should never say that we don’t want to be Malaysian.
“Everyone has their own sentimentality on this country they call home. My message for readers is to just love being here and being the citizen that you are."
Datuk Afdlin Shauki
“Today should be a day where we rejoice in our differences because the kind of diversity we have is what makes us true.
“It is a tough year for us comedians, and looking at it from our standpoint, comedy – and the layers that exist within it act as a neutral space and is there to bring joy to the audience.
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“I don't want the country to get to a stage where we cannot talk about who we are and what we are all about – no room to make light of the things that we do wrong, to know that it is a problem and working towards improvement.
“I think the key to being a better Malaysian is to simply have some common sense. I would love for Malaysia to one day be open to different types of ideas, even through humour.
Kavin Jay
“Malaysia day is when we can come together as Malaysians, regardless of race or religion, and be proud of our country. It's weird how we need a day to remember this, but the way the world is now, sometimes we need days like this to remind us that we are one people, even though we're different.
“We can definitely be better Malaysians by just treating everyone the same, no matter where they come from. We're all from the human race, and we could do more to act more human. Also, use your signal lah!
Riezman Radzlan
“There is always a Malaysia Day comedy show, so financially, that’s great! The more politically correct answer is that we are still together as a nation through thick and thin, making the day more significant.
“I grew up outside of Malaysia and only came back when I was 19, so every time during the celebration I get to learn and catch up on more about Malaysia.
“There is no one answer that fits all to how we can be better Malaysians (or at least enjoy each other) — there is no right way but there is a wrong way. I think the question on some levels has the answer.
"Start by looking at yourself first – figure out yourself as a person and the areas you need to improve to be more courteous of the space you are in.
"Kind of like when you are on a flight where if there is an emergency – you have to take care of yourself first before attending to others. So when we do that, we can enjoy each other better.
“Another way is to come to every comedy show and support your local acts.
"I mean, truly the best way to see and understand Malaysia in a microcosm is to go to comedy shows because of its diversity – everyone from every corner of the country in one night expressing themselves and who they are.” – The Vibes, September 16, 2022
