The COVID-19 pandemic in Malaysia has entered the second phase. The government has been reminding the people that efforts to fight the pandemic must be ongoing.   

However, as citizens of Malaysia, we must never ignore the special date that was announced by the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, which was 31 August 1957. The date marked the beginning of the change in the country’s development.

It is the responsibility of every citizen to maintain the harmony and prosperity of the country that has people of different races and ethnicities. They have lived peacefully by following the principle of respecting each other, and this harmony can be seen and felt to this day.

The theme “Malaysia Prihatin” for this year’s Merdeka celebration fits well with what the government has been doing. Various initiatives have been implemented to lessen the burden of citizens of every level who have been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. These include financial assistance such as Prihatin Rakyat Economic Stimulus Package, Short-Term Economic Recovery Plan (PENJANA), and others

As for the Ministry of Higher Education, a few proactive initiatives have been implemented, such as the one-off RM200 aid for students at public institutions of higher learning, sending of students back to their hometown, free food service, PTPTN loan repayment deferment and others. Government’s efforts to help university students through the ministry headed by Dato’ Dr Noraini Ahmad, Minister of Higher Education, are clearly evident.  

At Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), the wave Jalur Gemilang flag campaign was also held, involving 500 university vehicles and staff, to raise the aura of Merdeka. This was done as part of tribute to the forefathers who fought for the independence. The campaign also involved UMT research vessel RV Discovery.

UMT also plans to organize a wave Jalur Gemilang flag tour on Redang Island in cooperation with other agencies and NGOs to boost the campaign. The programme will also involve a group of volunteers from Sea Turtle Research Unit (SEATRU) who support the effort to protect the nearly extinct species.

As a public institution of higher learning, UMT’s main objective is producing quality graduates. Excellence is not measured by academic achievement per se. Independent mind and soul and patriotism need to be instilled so that the “products” generated have strong identity and integrity that allow them to lead the country in the future.  

To achieve the objective, UMT has outlined a few initiatives in the forms of programmes and competitions, including merdeka cycle, photography competition, and short video competition.

In addition, through the Centre for Fundamental and Continuing Education, UMT has offered a number of subjects such as Current Issues and Philosophy, Appreciation of Ethics and Civilization, and nationhood programmes that become the foundation for multiracial unity among students.

UMT community whether academic or non-academic is reminded not to abuse the freedom given by the government and to continue complying with the SOP when carrying out the tasks. The unity displayed while facing COVID-19 needs to be maintained so that the value grows among the societies, which will strengthen the harmony between one another.

Let’s celebrate the month of Merdeka and Happy 63^rd Merdeka Day.