Kuala lumpur: IHH Healthcare Malaysia and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) have collaborated for the first time on the 'Merdeka Through Our Eyes' initiative, giving university students an opportunity to express what independence means to their generation through original short films.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative aims to empower young Malaysians to tell stories about the country through their own creative perspectives, in line with IHH Healthcare Malaysia's commitment to communities over more than 50 years. IHH Healthcare Malaysia CEO Dr Kamal Amzan emphasized that the initiative is not intended to define what Merdeka meant to young people, but rather to give them the freedom to interpret it from their own perspectives.
Dr Kamal stated that the diversity of the students' stories makes the initiative meaningful. He added that a nation remains relevant when every generation can see itself reflected in the story of the country's journey. He also noted that IHH Healthcare Malaysia's involvement reflected the company's evolving role beyond healthcare, while remaining committed to the sector that forms the core of its operations.
Developed jointly with UiTM's Faculty of Communication and Media Studies, the project involved students in the storytelling process from conceptualization and filming to producing short films based on the theme, "What Merdeka Means to Our Generation". Four works were shortlisted after an evaluation process - "Pitstop Malam Merdeka", "Satu Rasa", "Malaysia Memerhati" and "Juang".
UiTM Negeri Sembilan Branch, Rembau Campus Faculty of Communication and Media Studies senior lecturer Dr Siti Nasarah Ismail highlighted that the project enabled students to translate classroom theory into a creative project, bringing their stories to the screen. Dr Siti Nasarah mentioned that the experience allows students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting while understanding the responsibility of storytelling to a wider audience.
She further explained that producing the films challenged students to collaborate, make creative decisions, and take responsibility for their work, while strengthening their communication and storytelling skills. The four shortlisted short films will premiere on IHH Healthcare Malaysia's official YouTube channel and will be featured across the company's social media platforms.
The campaign will run until Malaysia Day on Sept 16, inviting Malaysians to reflect on the meaning of Merdeka through the perspectives of a new generation and the diverse stories, experiences, and views that continue to shape the nation. IHH is a leading multinational healthcare provider operating across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Singapore, Turkey, India, and China. In Malaysia, IHH operates 18 hospitals with approximately 3,600 beds under brands like Gleneagles, Island Hospital, Pantai, Prince Court, and Timberland Medical Centre.