For Malaysians, the end of August and the whole of September this year is of great significance. Come August 31st 2008, we shall be celebrating our 51st year of independence. Not merely is it an auspicious occasion for us, deserving a festive celebration, but we have to reflect upon it with pride. This is a time when we relive the struggles of our forefathers in our minds and in our hearts; a time to appreciate their courage, determination, sacrifice and contribution to the whole Malaysian population. A time to truly understand the meaning of Merdeka !, Merdeka! Merdeka! , that was hailed in unison at the Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur, 51 years ago. In succeeding the struggle for independence, the new generations of Malaysians are able to taste the fruits of independence – development in the social, economic and political context. As Malaysians, we have the full responsibility of upholding and sustaining the independence that was acquired in 1957 for the future generations.
As students you ARE Malaysia’s future. You are immensely important to our nation. You must play a positive role. Receive the best education possible so that your potentials and capacities are developed to the optimum level. Equipped with the required and up-to-date knowledge and skills, your contribution as the nation’s future workforce will be invaluable. There will be leaders of the nation amongst you, so such skills will need to be honed and developed from now.
Garner your efforts and energy into learning more about communication, management and leadership so that you will be prepared to lead organizations (whether big or small) and the nation. Grab the opportunities that exist within the universities, through associations that exist on campus or contribute voluntary services to the surrounding community. You will see that these positive activities will assist you into becoming towering personalities of the future. These are the personalities that will sustain Malaysia’s dreams and aspirations, transform them into reality and sustain it for the generations to come.
Merdeka !, Merdeka! Merdeka!
