Kuantan: The spirit of the National Month is expressed not only by flying the Jalur Gemilang but also through appreciation of cultural heritage and creative arts among the community. The community's participation in various events organised in their neighbourhoods also provides parents with a platform to instil patriotism in their children in a more relaxed, creative and enjoyable setting.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Normaizan Mohd Salleh, 45, took part in a decorative arrangement competition where she crafted a tanjak (traditional Malay headgear), hibiscus, and keris using fabric, headscarves, and prayer mats. This effort was not just to promote cultural heritage but also to introduce the spirit of independence to her four children. Normaizan expressed that through her participation, her children had the opportunity to witness firsthand efforts to promote cultural heritage during the National Day celebrations.
"This is my way of celebrating independence, while also giving my children an opportunity to learn about and familiarise themselves with our cultural heritage and symbols associated with independence," she told Bernama. Normaizan won first place in the decorative arrangement competition, speaking at the Jiwa Merdeka Indera Mahkota programme organised by Pertubuhan Wanita Anggun Inspirasi Kuantan (WANGI).
Normaizan noted that her involvement in the programme inspired her third child, Asfa Nur Nelydhia Hasmisham, 11, to participate in the independence-themed traditional attire competition. "My daughter wore traditional attire combining Malay and Chinese elements as a symbol of cultural diversity and harmony among the country's multiracial society, and she won third place today," she said.
Nur Syamimi Abdul Razak, 33, encouraged her daughter, Nur Nabilah Sumayyah Mohd Hassan Hafiz, 11, to join the same competition to expose her to the role of young generations as custodians of the country's cultural heritage and identity. She believes that participation in cultural and independence-themed activities helps Gen Z discover the uniqueness of local heritage and fosters pride in their national identity.
"My daughter wore a Puteri Perak outfit showcasing the traditional elements and unique culture of the state. Through participation in activities like this, she can learn about traditional attire and appreciate our heritage," she added, noting that Nur Nabilah emerged champion in her category.
Meanwhile, WANGI chairperson Farahida Fauzi highlighted that the programme also served as a platform to foster unity among the multi-racial members of the local community. The event included traditional games, colouring competitions, e-sports, and a Merdeka quiz.
"This is our initiative to strengthen ties and bring the community closer so that we can embrace the spirit of independence together and appreciate the cultural diversity that forms the country's identity. Through the Jiwa Merdeka programme, we also want to convey the message that independence gives us freedom in various aspects, including freedom of expression, the freedom to live comfortably and to interact with one another regardless of race or background," she said.