MERDEKA!

SKSB HIP MALAYSIA NATIONAL DAY : DESIGN YOUR OWN NATIONAL DAY STAMP
AND STAND A CHANCE TO WIN A PRIZE!
MERDEKA KNOW ITS HISTORY AND THEMES

MERDEKA

Independence

DayEvoking the National

Day spirit in war against
Covid-19

Celebrating from home? Chronology: Malaysia 64 31 August 2021
No problem in 5 great ways! Years of Independence

FOREWORD

Malaysia has gone through 64 years as an independent country. As
Malaysians, we need to take the opportunity to appreciate the true
meaning of independence because an independence is not just a mere
rhetoric of historical narration.

Even though, this year’s celebration might be a little bit different
from what we have done in previous years, it does not mean the joy and
spirit of celebrating this wonderful day has lose its sparks as well.
Previously, almost every year we celebrated the anniversary of
independence at the school level and it was always lively with the
involvement of all the pupils. This year's celebration is different but the
school still wants to celebrate it so that it helps in educating pupils to
embody the spirit of independence.

The spirit and soul of independence among the people of this country must start among youngsters
because they are our future generation’s hope and leadership. The true meaning is that the independence of
the soul and mind is nurtured through the construction of identity which is formed through four main
aspects, namely religion, morality, education and language. This is because the younger generation faces the
threat of colonialism in new forms, especially thought and culture. This must be planted in the souls of pupils
because we do not only want to produce a generation of heirs with a spirit of independence but also a
generation who is able to fill the space of independence for the future of the country.
It is hoped that the teachers' efforts will also be able to enliven the Merdeka month celebration at the school.
May this year’s celebration still be merry as we have always celebrated. On be half of the school community, I
wish everyone a very Happy Independence Day! Stay at home, stay safe.

Dg Sarifah A. Mahmod
Headmistress
SK Sungai Bedaun

“ Since the independence from the British Empire in

31st August 1957, Malaysia progress forward for 64 years
and making itself visible in the world history. A progression in
economic achievements , political and democratic maturity,
adaptation to information technology, communion in society
diversity, development in human capital makes Malaysia as one
of the best gem in Asia as well as the world. Let’s us unite as
one to celebrate this important day in our nation’s history.

Happy Independence Day! ”

SKSB HIP TEAM

CHRONOLOGY
Malaysia: 64 Years of I epe e ce

CHRONOLOGY: MALAYSIA, 64 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE

The Early Days Western Colonization

Evidence of modern human The Western superpowers acquired interest in Malaya
habitation in Malaysia dates minerals resources and started the era of occupation. It is
back 40,000 years until the the beginning of a long colonization for 446 years.
foundation of Malacca as an
important commercial trade
center in Asia.

SKSB Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

Japanese Invasion & The Emergency Independence Struggle

The occupation of the Japanese during WWII A strong opposition from Malays, who
and the emergency of guerilla operations by opposed establishment of a crown colony
the Malayan Communist Party raised the called the Malayan Union opened the path of
nationalism spirit. Independence struggle.

SKSB Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

Merdeka - 31 August 1957

The effort for independence was spearhead by Tunku The independence day was celebrated on 31st August 1957 when the Federation of
Abdul Rahman the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, Malaya’s independence from British Empire was officially declared.
who led a delegation of ministers and political
leaders of Malaya in negotiations with the British
in London for Merdeka, or independence along with
the first President of Malaysian Chinese Association
(MCA) Tun Dato Sri Tan Cheng Lock and the fifth
President of Malaysian Indian Congress Tun V. T.
Sambanthan.

Once it became clear that the Communist threat posed during the Malayan Emergency was petering out,
agreement was reached on 8 February 1956, for Malaya to gain independence from the British Empire.
However, logistical and administrative reasons led to the official proclamation of independence in the next
year, on 31 August 1957, at Stadium Merdeka (Independence Stadium), in Kuala Lumpur, which was
purposely built for the celebrations of national independence day. The announcement of the day was set
months earlier by the Tunku in a meeting of the Alliance in Melaka

SKSB Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

SKSB Newspaper headline from August 1957

Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

Prosperous Nation
1957-2021

With the creation of a Malaysian nation and an
independent administration, the country witnessed a
dramatic rise in government expenditure for
infrastructure, rural development, educational initiatives,
industrialisation and economic diversification. This has led
to accelerated growth in employment creation, productivity
, income levels and educational attainment.

Malaysia has grown tremendously with a steady economic progression and rapid infrastructural development over the years since the independence.

SKSB Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

Formation of Malaysia
16 September 1963

Established on September 16th 1963 by the unity
of Federation of Malaya, Singapore and the
territories of Sabah and Sarawak from a nation
called Malaysia.

Malaysia proclamation ceremony 16 September 1963

A Lesson of Unity
13 May 1969
There had been several incidents of racial conflict
between Malays and Chinese before the 1969 riots. In
Singapore, the antagonism between the races led to the
1964 Race Riots which contributed to the separation of
Singapore from Malaysia on 9 August 1965. The 13 May
1969 incident refers to the Sino-Malay sectarian violence
in Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysian riots 13 May 1969

The riot occurred in the aftermath of the 1969 Malaysian general election when opposition parties
made gains at the expense of the ruling coalition, the Alliance Party. The racial riots led to
declaration of a state of national emergency or Darurat by Yang di-Pertuan Agong resulting in the
suspension of the Parliament by te Malaysian government.

SKSB Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

Malaysia - The New Normal

The new coronavirus pandemic has unleashed chaos on the world. Governments and
organizations are scrambling to manage and contain the deadly virus from spreading
further. In Malaysia, as of 31 August, more than 1.6 million people been infected and over
15000 fatalities have been reported. On 28 June, the former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin
had announced the National Recovery Plan which comprises four phases and based on three indicators,
which are; the number of daily COVID-19 cases, the rate of bed usage in ICU wards, and the
percentages of the population that has completed two doses of the vaccine. The Malaysian Government
also provide assistance package worth RM150 billion and covers a total of 35 initiatives ,in PEMULIH.

As the Coronavirus still at large, Malaysian has to adapt to the new norms in the long run. Changes
to the lifestyle and daily routines will by far the biggest changes. As Malaysia celebrate the 64 years of
independence, Malaysian have embraced the new normal successfully with its dynamic and upwardly
workforce, adoption of new technologies and its SME-dominated economy are all evidences of Malaysia’s
ability to adapt, change and flourish for more effective in the future.

SKSB Chronology: Malaysia, Sixty Four Years of Independence

MERDEKA - CELEBRATION THEME AND LOGO

In the spirit of the Merdeka day which celebrated every year on 31st
August, the government will fixed a memorable theme and logo to
provide an uplifting spirit, feeling of patriotism and help foster national

unity. The themes and logos have been introduced since 1970.

Merdeka Theme & Logo 2021

DEEP BLUE COLOUR 5 RED DOTS HIBISCUS

Symbolising the peaceful Symbolising the principles of Symbolising the country striving to
co-existence of the diverse the RUkun Negara reach the pinnacle of success
communities
7 RED & WHITE STRIPES
CRESCENT MOON
Symbolising the preparedness,
Symbolising Islam as courage & conviction to
the religion of the overcome obstacles
Federation
HEART-SHAPED
14-POINTED STAR
Symbolising the government’s
Symbolising the unity of caring attitude towards the
the 13 states and nation’s multi-racial
Federal Governments population.

Represents Malaysia united in fight COLOURS Represents the government’s initiatives for welfare,
against the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the people’s and economic survival.
Red & blue like in the
Malaysian flag Celebration Themes and Logo

SKSB

2019

SKSB 2020

Celebration Themes and Logo

5 WAYS CELEBRATING AT HOME

Remember the amazing fireworks displayed at
the stroke of midnight of National Day, roar
of the army tanks, the immaculate footwork
of the march past, and the adoration of the
crowd during the last Merdeka parade?

Even at school, we’ve many activities during the month of National Day celebration. Being at the
centre of a live Merdeka parade seemed like a distance memory away. No thanks to Covid-19.

There are many ways we can relive
the glory of Merdeka 2021 indoors.
With a little creativity and some
effort, celebrating Hari Merdeka
the “new normal” way could be a
welcomed change! Check out these 5
great ways you can celebrate
Merdeka 2021 from the comfort
of your home.

1. Fill your surrounding with Jalur Gemilang.

Hang some Malaysian flags around your house.
Show everyone else that you’re proud of being a
Malaysian.

2. Organise a Virtual Karaoke Party

Beat the boredom of singing alone and belt your favourite songs with
friends. It’s easy to host your virtual karaoke party via Google Meet,
Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Discord. Download Watch2Gether app, a
free social video website that enables you to sync videos and content
with your party. Set up a room and search the karaoke version. The
app allows everybody in your karaoke group to tune in to the same
YouTube videos simultaneously. Let’s get the party started!

3. Host a Merdeka Hang Out

Take charge and host an online Merdeka-themed party with your
family and friends. Get dressed in the colours of Jalur Gemilang
or any Malaysian Traditional attire. You could challenge your best
friends with some quizzes about Merdeka or play the best online
games such as Minecraft, Among Us, or Mobile Legends. Bond
over an interesting theme like an album viewing of past school
activities during the months of National Day.

4. Expressing patriotism through art

Getting creative in celebrating National Day by
hand-make some Merdeka-themed handicrafts, or
recipies. Whether it be a flag, a painting of
Malaysia, an arch of Malaysia landmark, replicate
a Malaysian flag on a pizza or decorating a cake.
You can also join SKSB Merdeka Drawing contest
too!

5. Learn more about our beloved country

National Day is a time for us to look back at history
and take heed of the lessons learnt to move
forward and be a good citizen for our country.
During this National Day, read some books or articles
to educate yourself about the importance of being
independent and having a blessing country. Please
enjoy your time reading this magazine and we hope it
can give you some crucial knowledge about our
Malaysia!

Hello boys and girls!
SKSB English Panel is holding an SKSB
Merdeka Drawing Contest runs from 31st
August till 15th September 2021, 11.00pm.
The participants are invited to get
creative and design their very own National
Day stamp to commemorate Malaysia’s
64th birthday.
The contest is open to all SK Sungai Bedaun
pupils. All who submit their designs will stand
a chance to win a Mystery Gift worth
RM30.
How to participate in SKSB Merdeka
Drawing Contest?

1. Download the stamp templates at the
link given in your class Whatsapp
group.

2. Print it out and design your own
National Day Stamp.

3. Fill in the form.
4. Scan or photograph and upload your

artwork to the link given.
5. Any inquiries regarding the

competition, please contact your
English teacher.
Have fun designing!

Malaysia Facts

Malaysia

Prime Minister: Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri bin Yaakob (21 August 2021- present)

National & Largest Capital: Kuala Lumpur

Federal Administrative Putrajaya
Capital:

National & Official Malay (Bahasa Malaysia)
Language:

Other Languages: English, Mandarin, Tamil, Iban, Dusun, Kadazan
Other indigenous languages

Religions: Islam (Official religion), Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism
Other religious groups

Land Area: 330,524 km2

Water Area: 1190 km2

Currency: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)

Population: Approximately 32.7 million (as per 15 July 2021)

Jalur Gemilang

Malaysian Flag

represents courage The 14 stripes, of equal width, represent the
represents purity equal status in the federation of the 13
represents royal member states and the federal territories
represents unity
The 14 points of the star represent the
unity between these entities

Negaraku

Malaysian National Anthem

Negaraku
Tanah tumpahnya darahku

Rakyat hidup
Bersatu dan maju

Rahmat bahagia
Tuhan kurniakan

Raja kita
Selamat bertakhta

Rahmat bahagia
Tuhan kurniakan

Raja kita
Selamat bertakhta

MALAYSIA

❖ Malaysia has 13 states, the biggest
state called 'Sarawak' and the smallest
is 'Perlis'.

❖ Malaysia has hundreds of islands along
the coastline. Pulau Langkawi is the
biggest island of the country. Pulau
means island in Malaysian.

Langkawi

❖ Malaysia's highest point is Mount
Kinabalu, which is on the island of
Borneo. Mount Kinabalu is 4,095 m/
13,435 ft high.

❖ The longest river is the Rajang river
with 563 km/ 350 ft.

❖ Malaysia's Mulu Caves on the island of
Borneo are one of the largest cave
systems in the world and is home to
millions of bats and swiftlets.

Clearwater Cave is part of the Mulu Caves System

❖ The Rafflesia is the world's largest and heaviest flower.
The rafflesia arnoldii can grown up to 1 m/3 ft in
diameter and can weigh up to 10 kg/22 lb! It is often
called ‘The Monster Flower’ as it is so big and has a foul
odour that attracts insects. The huge red flower with
five petals does not have a stem, leaves or even roots,
but is a parasite growing on a host vine. The Rafflesia is
named after explorer Stamford Raffles and was first
discovered by Joseph Arnold in 1818.

❖ The island of Borneo is not only the largest island in Asia, but the third largest
island in the world!

❖ The Malaysian part of Borneo is smaller than the Indonesian part as it covers less
than ⅓ of the island. The country of Brunei is surrounded by Malaysia and is the
third country sharing the island.

❖ Borneo's Mount Kinabalu is the highest mountain in Malaysia.

❖ Malaysia lies close to the
equator and thus has an
equatorial climate with two
rainy seasons. The humidity
is very high.

❖ Singapore is linked to Johor
Bahru/Malaysia by a 26 km/
16 miles long bridge.

Aerial view of Johor Bahru

Penang Malacca

❖ There are four UNESCO world heritage sites in Malaysia among them the towns of

Melaka (also referred to as Malacca) and Georgetown (also called Penang).