Far From Home, Patriotism Remains Strong Among Malaysians Abroad

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- Despite being far from home, the spirit of patriotism and love for the country continues to burn brightly among Malaysians who came together to celebrate Malaysia’s 69th National Day.

In Wellington, Malaysians gathered at Rumah Malaysia for a celebration highlighted by the hoisting of the Jalur Gemilang, accompanied by the singing of the national anthem, Negaraku, and the recitation of the Rukun Negara pledge.

The celebration brought together Malaysians from diverse backgrounds, including the New Zealand Malaysian Society (NZMS), the Wellington New Zealand Malay Association (MNZW), the New Zealand Malaya Veterans Association, and the Wellington Malaysian Students’ Organisation (WMSO), alongside officials and staff from the High Commission.

In his address, Malaysian High Commissioner to New Zealand Abu Bakar Mamat said celebrating National Day abroad was not merely about commemorating the historic moment of the country’s independence, but also an opportunity to rekindle love for the homeland and strengthen unity and ties among Malaysians.

"The true meaning of independence ought to be reflected in unity, mutual aid, and our collective duty to safeguard the reputation of Malaysia.

"Every Malaysian living in New Zealand acts as an ambassador for our nation through their positive contributions and goodwill fostered within the local community,” he added.

An estimated 1,335 Malaysian diaspora reside in Wellington, including Malaysian students sponsored by the Public Service Department (JPA), Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA), and the Ministry of Education Malaysia.

Meanwhile, the High Commission of Malaysia in Bandar Seri Begawan organised a Jalur Gemilang hoisting ceremony in conjunction with Malaysia's National Day celebration, which was attended by more than 150 Malaysians from diverse walks of life.

The ceremony began with the raising of the Jalur Gemilang, accompanied by the national anthem, Negaraku, followed by the singing of the patriotic songs Jalur Gemilang and Aku Berjanji, as well as the recitation of the Rukun Negara Pledge.

Addressing the gathering, Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Datuk Mohd Aini Atan urged the diaspora to reflect on the sacrifices of freedom fighters, cherish the gift of independence, and safeguard the legacy of their struggle.

“Although we are far from home, I am confident that the spirit of patriotism and love for the country always remain strong in our hearts. May the Jalur Gemilang we raise today serve as a symbol of our pride and determination to continue upholding Malaysia’s name on the international stage,” he said.

-- BERNAMA