NINETEEN-sixty-three was a historic year as it heralded the birth of a new Federation – Malaysia – and marked a new era in nation building, following the independence that was earned in 1957.
Malaysia Day, however, was not declared a public holiday until the year 2010, under the BN administration of Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak. The former prime minister, in his announcement, wished to remind Malaysians of the struggles faced by their forefathers in the evolution of Malaysia as a nation.
Despite this, it appears many Malaysians are still uncertain of what this day actually represents, some even referring to it as a mundane ‘second’ Merdeka Day.
Former student activist Christina Ningkang – of Bidayuh and Iban ancestry from Sarawak – finds it frustrating that the historical realities of Malaysia Day are not being appreciated nor seriously substantiated beyond being a public holiday.
“Historically we are only a couple of years shy from ‘Hari Merdeka’ (Merdeka Day), so in my opinion, Malaysia Day should be seen as big as ‘Hari Merdeka’ because I think youngsters today are still not clear of what is Malaysia Day and its history.
“All Malaysians know that it is ‘just’ a public holiday – but public holiday of what and why, right? Malaysians should know this by now,” she stressed.
The Vibes spoke to Christina on matters confronting Sarawakians even after achieving independence for Part three of a six-part series ‘Truly Malaysia?’ which runs every Saturday at 5pm here at The Vibes.
Sarawak v Peninsular Malaysia?
Christina also refuted claims by certain quarters that Sarawakians dislike Peninsular Malaysians and are threatening to exit the Federation.
“Sarawak standing on our very own? Never. These are threats by some politicians with a political agenda.
“We, Sarawakians have no issue with the law, or rakyat from other states. We adore and respect our monarchy, rules and regulations by our military and police are among the best globally, so, what is there to complaint and compare?”
Christina emphasized that the only problem Malaysians are facing are politicians, deeming them ‘chronic liars’.
“‘Tolonglah Ya Ampun’ (Please, oh my God), a handful of them do not represent us all – the Sarawak people. We are very much civilized; as for them ...? You are getting my harsh point?” she said, while rolling her eyes.
She explains that it is also not the case that Sarawakians dislike Peninsular Malaysians, but it is simply a matter of protecting their own interest.
“Honestly, we are a family – family members that have yet to meet each other.
“The only ‘actual’ thing or situation dividing us is the great South China Sea. That cannot be helped because it is by the Grace of The Almighty. Otherwise, we are a nation. One complete family.
“There is nowhere on earth like Malaysia, trust me. ‘Mesti kenal kita sesame kita’ (we must take the initiative to know each other). ‘Kalau tidak kenal, maka tidak cinta kan?’ (you will never love someone until you get to know them)." – The Vibes, October 30, 2021
Read the previous part of this series here:
The ‘Truly Malaysia’ Series Pt 1: Syaq Koyok
The 'Truly Malaysia' Series Pt 2: Abang Buzze Azam
