Merdeka derived from the Sanskrit maharddhika meaning "rich, prosperous and powerful", in a more local interpretation, the word carries the meaning of ‘Freedom’ . Malaysia achieved its independence on 31st August 1957 and this year marked 61st years of its sovereignty. Malaysia is a prosperous country in many ways from history, culture, language, culinary, flora and faunas, education, economy and its people whom is known with their kindness and politeness.
Independence carries different sentiments depending on the individuals, however in general, the ability to achieve freedom and maintaining it against all the odds, defines the general concept of independence. A peaceful country draws many attention and interest from people all over the world to visit the country, to work in the country and to study in that country. The most common trend that is getting more attention nowadays is Educational tourism. Educational tourism allows the students to travel and at the same time gain knowledge. UPM being one of the contributors for the educational tourism currently have more than 5000 international students whom has graduated and many of them further their studies again with UPM.
Every year, the celebration of the National Independence Day celebration is held on August 31st to commemorate the day where Malaya was granted their independence after 446 years of colonization. On this day, a celebration celebrating Malaysia’s independence which is also known as Merdeka Parade organized by The Ministry of Multimedia and Communication Malaysia which often take place at Dataran Merdeka Kuala Lumpur are held. However, for the year 2018, the parade has been shifted to a bigger location in Putrajaya, the government administrative centre. The event is expected to garner more than 10,000 spectators. With the theme ‘Sayangi Malaysiaku’ which can loosely be translated to “To love our Malaysia”. During this month the streets, office, home will be decorated with glorious Malaysian Flag.
Link YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5l1iApcFFlM
The Merdeka parade consist of Marching events by Malaysian public institutions, Malaysian defence bodies, athletes, air show and cultural performance as a closing ceremony. Event will begin at 7:00am until 10:30am. Be sure to attend if you are in town and to check out the much-awaited historical event not to be missed by Malaysians and foreign guests. Happy Merdeka fellow Malaysians!
Prepared by: Nadia Zawani Hussin
