BY: HASLINA TAHIR

In a couple of days more Malaysians are set to celebrate the 64th anniversary of Independence or Merdeka from the departing British colonialists in 1957 but the usual pomp and fanfare is set to be missing.

Owing to the current Covid-19 pandemic the celebrations are set to be low key although political leaders are urging people to fly the national flag, the Jalur Gemilang, all over the country in a show of patriotism.

Malaysians usually look forward to the merriment and festive nature of the Merdeka celebrations every year and irrespective of what happens they will be in full force especially at the National Day parade.

Malaysians of all ilk, of all stripes, irrespective of race and religion will converge or unite at the site of the National Day celebrations to show their loyalty and love to the country. But this year the mood is sombre and toned down.

Expectedly the National Day celebrations this year will be muted and most Malaysians are likely to stay home to be safe from the raging Covid-19 pandemic and families are expected to celebrate together minus visitors and friends.

But this is a wise and cautious approach as none of us should take the coronavirus for granted and should do all for our own safety and protection to prevent ourselves from being infected by celebrating quietly. But a quiet celebration doesn’t necessarily mean our beloved country is loved less.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE

** The views expressed on this opinion is of the writer and not the publisher