Happy Merdeka Day and all that
Yeah, today is the 49th anniversary of Malaysia’s Independence day from the British. Happy Merdeka Day and all that. Although I am not sure whether this should be synonymous with “Malaysia Day”, since 31st August was only the day of the formation of the Federation of Malaya, minus Sabah, Sarawak and (back then) Singapore. It was only on 16th September 1963
As a somewhat history buff, I do like to be particular about these matters, however small it may seem. I think we should not just celebrate 31st August as our National Day, but also 16th September as Malaysia Day, even though some may conveniently want to forget that. Eh?
Uh, as a history buff you should know that Malaysia Day was September 16 1963.
I’m not big on those revisionists who insist that this is our 43rd, and not 49th, independence day. As far as I’m concerned, this Federation gained its independence on 31st August 1957 - it just admitted a couple more states in 1963 and changed its name. In all other respects, Malaya and Malaysia are identical polities.
I do agree that we ought to celebrate September 16 as Malaysia Day, though. It’s still an important date.
Comment by johnleemk — August 31, 2006 @ 11:00 pm
Salaam. I thought that’s why our government promoted Bulan Kemerdekaan from 17 August to 16 September instead of just 31st August. I’d prefer to say it’s the 49th anniversary of independence but this year Malaysia will turn 43.
Comment by Nectar — September 3, 2006 @ 10:26 pm