Merdeka Hope

Every time Merdeka Day comes by, I am filled with envy.

Envy of the spirit that lies in the heart of the older generation, many of whom have strugggled when the Japanese, Communists and British held the ultimate power in Malaya.

One of my dad's favourite stories is how he was at the Square in Malacca with his dad, joining in thousands of others and Tunku Abdul Rahman who declared independence over the British. He was 14 at the time.

These days the spirit of Merdeka is almost non-existent. For many it is just another public holiday. There is no spirit, no excitement, not an inch of gratitude, especially among the younger generation. Not that you can blame them, sometimes. The negatives outweigh the positives.

On a grander scale, there is progress, there is development, but when it comes down to what matters most - what is in the heart, we seem to have gone backwards.

Every Merdeka I wish that there is a little bit more spirit in me and everyone of us, especially those who have the privilige of changing the country.

And I hope for a hearty, whole and happy Malaysia.

Brainstorm

Editor Irwan says we have to come up with ideas for feature stories. So I thought to kick things off I should brainstorm.

What am I interested in? (On a broad scale, soon to be narrowed down)

1. The un-environmentally conscious Malaysians
2. The deplorable condition of libraries in Kuala Lumpur
3. The development of the local art scene
4. Getting the younger generation to develop their English language skills
5. Cultural-ish stuff (to be expanded upon)

I am also taking any ideas for this new project, no matter silly or serious. If you have one (and don't want to use it yourself) please leave me a comment. Gracias!

Inspirational Yasmin

It has been a bit more than a week now since Yasmin Ahmad passed away.

And I have been thinking about her off and on since then.

I wish I had a chance to talk to her, to interview the great mind behind the simple and yet powerful ads and movies. She was so inspiring, truly Malaysian in heart and soul.

I wish I could come up with stories like she did. To write stories with the potential to change minds and lives like that would be any writer's dream come true, including me.

The melancholic in me is again reminded of my own journey. Of taking time off and smelling the roses. Taking opportunities that come by. Enjoying life to the best of my ability. And making a difference in the lives of those around me.

Thank you Yasmin for giving us a little more spirit, hope and dreams.

You will be remembered. You will be missed.