Seremban: In a spirited effort to celebrate the national month, a dedicated resident has transformed his home into a striking display of patriotism by decorating it with over 150 flags. With a modest budget of RM200, Jasmin Abu Hassan embarked on this creative venture, aiming to win the title of ‘Rumah Terpaling Merdeka’ in a competition organized by the Taman Pinggiran Senawang Neighbourhood Watch (KRT).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Jasmin, 53, was joined by his wife, Rosmaini Mohd Yusof, in the two-week-long decorating process. The couple’s efforts include special touches such as the Negeri Sembilan flag and portraits of national leaders, adding a unique flair to their home. Jasmin, who works as a supervisor at Syarikat Air Negeri Sembilan Sdn Bhd (SAINS), noted that while last year he focused solely on hanging flags, this year he expanded his decorations to include historical elements.

Jasmin expressed his excitement, saying that this year’s competition is more engaging, with weekly winners being announced. This shift has encouraged greater creativity and participation from the community, including children who are eager to contribute. He added that portraits of all the Prime Ministers, from the first to the current, are now part of the decor, completing the Independence-themed display.

The father of six, who has resided in the neighborhood for 25 years, mentioned that about 40 per cent of the decorations are still in progress, with the competition deadline approaching at the end of the month. Taman Pinggiran Senawang KRT chairman, Fadzil Sharil, highlighted that the competition, now in its second year, has seen increased enthusiasm, with over 80 per cent of residents showcasing heightened creativity in their home decorations.

Fadzil shared that although the prizes are modest, consisting of medals, hampers, and daily necessities, the community’s spirit is commendable. Each week, participants introduce new elements, keeping the neighborhood lively and engaged. He also announced that 20 of the best-decorated houses will compete in the finals on September 6, judged across four categories: cheerfulness, arrangement, creativity, and neatness.

In a bid to further enhance the National Month celebrations, the KRT has decided to construct a replica of a national landmark, the KLCC towers, using 500 recycled bottles, PVC pipes, and various other materials, adding an ambitious communal project to the festivities.