31/08/2025

ON SUNDAY August 31, 2025 theSunday Special IV

Selamat Hari Merdeka to all Malaysians near and far! May we always carry the spirit of unity, resilience and creativity in everything we do. Let’s continue to honour our past while boldly stepping into the future!”

Ho

Changing symbols of patriotism

Harry Ho, 21, is a Malaysian photogra pher and undergraduate at the University of Glasgow, Scotland. In 2023, he was honoured with the International Pho tography Awards and his work has since graced exhibitions both at home and abroad. The young photographer’s favourite subject is the passage of his beloved country, Malaysia. Drawn to the quiet poetry of his homeland, Ho captures 0DOD\VLD LQ DOO LWV ÀHHWLQJ EHDXW\ ± WKH warmth of a smile, the echo of laughter, the stillness between moments. Through his lens, everyday scenes become intimate portraits of place and time. Each image is a love letter to the cities, towns, suburbs and villages he has wandered, preserving not just what is seen, but what is felt. “Whether I’m capturing the morn ing mist over a village or the fast-paced energy of a city street vendor, my work tells the story of a Malaysia that is raw, beautiful and real. One of my proudest

1. #MyMalaysiaStory Kick-start a social media move ment by posting your own #My MalaysiaStory this Merdeka . Share a photo, video or short caption that captures your personal Malaysia, from your favourite roti canai stall to the street art in your neighbourhood. Encourage friends and followers to join in, creating an authentic, people powered gallery of what makes our country unique. 2. Digital Merdeka gallery Create or join an online gallery showcas ing the works of local creatives – photog raphers, illustrators, poets and musicians. Platforms like Instagram, Behance or even a simple Google Drive link can serve as moments was curating a photographic series titled Sonder, which highlights the untold stories of everyday individuals I KDYH SKRWRJUDSKHG ± VWRULHV WKDW EHJDQ right here in Malaysia,” Ho shared. For him, Merdeka is not just about FHOHEUDWLRQV ÀDJV DQG ¿UHZRUNV ,W LV about the freedom to express, create and belong. From a youth’s perspective, Merdeka represents the chance to rewrite their narrative to celebrate their roots while daring to dream globally. “I’m proud of who we are as a nation, our languages, our food, our diversity and our culture. Most importantly, we share the same goal of building a better Malaysia together. This year, I think we should spotlight local creatives such as musicians, artists and photographers and start a digital Merdeka gallery curated by youth and for youth. We should celebrate both the past that shaped us and the Malaysia we are building today!” said Ho, brimming with excitement.

WHEN we think of patriotism, the images that come to mind often include waving the Jalur Gemilang , singing Negaraku or celebrating Merdeka Day parades. But for many Malaysians today – especially younger generations, expressions of love for the nation are taking new, unexpected forms. In the digital age, patriotism is no longer confined to physical spaces. Instead, it shows up on social media feeds, in viral videos that celebrate Malaysia’s diversity and in online campaigns supporting local businesses and homegrown talent. A TikTok reel showcasing a nasi lemak stall can go just as far in fostering national pride as a parade float rolling down Dataran Merdeka. Technology has also made patriotism more personal. Young Malaysians are find ing ways to honour the nation by contribut your exhibition space. It’s a way to celebrate Merdeka by spotlighting Malaysian talent for both local and global audiences. 3. Stream a Malaysian playlist Celebrate the nation’s soundscape by curating or streaming a Merdeka playlist featuring Malaysian artists, from legendary icons to up-and-coming indie acts. Share the playlist link with your friends and family so the whole community can groove to homegrown talent, whether they’re in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu or halfway around the world. 4. Virtual kopitiam chats Host a Merdeka -themed group video call with friends and family, especially those living abroad. Make it a cultural catch-up: wear batik or traditional attire, share childhood Merdeka

ing their skills, whether it’s coding apps that improve public services, creating art that reflects Malaysia’s identity or using digital platforms to raise awareness about social causes. These micro-acts of nation-building may not make the evening news, but they add up to a renewed sense of belonging. Even traditional symbols are being rein terpreted. The Jalur Gemilang is now seen not only on flagpoles, but also on sneakers, tote bags and Instagram filters. What might look like fashion trends are, in fact, subtle signals of pride and connection. As Malaysia celebrates its 68th year of independence, the challenge and opportu nity lie in embracing these evolving forms of patriotism. They may look different from the past, but at their core, they are driven by the same spirit: A love for the nation and a hope for a better future.

5 digital ways to celebrate Merdeka

memories, or cook and eat local food “together” over the call. It’s a way to feel close, even when oceans apart. 5. Augmented reality flags Add a modern twist to Merdeka pride by trying AR filters on Instagram, Snapchat, or TikTok that overlay Malaysian flags, cultural motifs, or festive animations onto your selfies and videos. Share them with the hashtag #Merdeka2025 to keep the celebratory spirit flowing across platforms.