As 31st August approaches, Malaysians, as usual, are busy preparing for the Independence Day celebration, despite a slightly sombre one this year. Foreshadowed by the double tragedies of MH307 and MH17, the 57th Merdeka Day will still be duly observed and honoured for it commemorates the country’s freedom from colonial power.
In fact, Independence Day to most countries, is regarded as the most significant event for its meaning and philosophy. Its significance is all the more profound when it is attained through long and bloody wars fought by some countries.
Being a symbol of liberty essential to human beings and a prerequisite for civilisation-building, the Independence Day also acts as an instrument for unity when all levels of society come together with the same intention of commemorating a historic date. For the older generation of Malaysians – 57 years and above – especially those who bear the scars of colonial rule, Merdeka Day marks a significant point of the beginning of a meaningful life liberated from any external interferences, while the country’s youths can learn to understand and appreciate the meaning behind the struggles endured by their elders and heed lessons which are pertinent in facing new challenges unique to the current age.
As far as the state is concerned, the sign of independence is evident in the ability of the people to govern their country by themselves without any foreign forces. Unfortunately, despite having achieved political sovereignty, some countries are still controlled, and to some extent, bullied by the more supreme power nations.
However, more importantly, the spirit of independence should also be assessed through a truly independent way of thinking among the people which is devoid of any elements of narrow-mindedness, parochialism and intolerance. The verve of the independence-minded among countrymen should be based on the fundamental principles of reason, paramount rule of law and noble principles of religious ethics and virtues. In any undertaking, particularly related to the common interest of the nation, one should refrain from being driven by hot-blooded emotions and overzealousness especially in trying to achieve the objectives narrowly-interpreted by their particular group or party.
The litmus test of this independent thinking, perhaps, is evident, for example, in conversations and debates conducted in the social media especially when dealing with political issues. Many would agree that in most cases, objective reasoning and intelligent discussions are missing in conversations on politics in the social media. Convenient ways are resorted with dismissive statements and harsh words thrown towards one another as well as humiliation of certain dignified figures and institutions in the country. As social media is a ‘democratic’ and open realm, any Tom Dick and Harry could join discussions at will and often make situations unhealthy. In the end, most virtual discussions turn divisive rather than a place of engagement for unity. The social media, in other words, is akin to ‘political media’ where criticisms, lobbying, and character assassinations dominate over social aspects. Not just is this unbecoming for a multi-cultural nation, but also a poison to civilisation-building.
If such a practice persists, the spirit of independence can hardly be internalised. It is important to note that while groups and political parties are a convention, reason and religious principles are universal. The creation of the former is indeed ultimately meant to realise the latter. Only with genuine independent thinking will liberty be realised.
As a final say, independence and freedom only exist in doing what is right. Many a time people do something wrong under the pretext of freedom and independence. In this relation, it is interesting to note that the Arabic as well as Malay word, ‘ikhtiyar’, meaning ‘free choice’ comes from the root word ‘khayr’ which means ‘good’. It is therefore imperative that any deed or idea promoted under freedom and independence has to suit the framework of genuine ethical principles and done independently of any form of vices.