Let’s remember that we are all Malaysians — Hafiz Hassan

On August 11, Professor Dr Phar Kim Beng's assertion resonates with the importance of remembering Malaysia's unity. The nation's journey to independence and formation was marked by negotiation and agreement, as highlighted in the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63). MA63 aimed to ensure that the Government of the Federation of Malaya took necessary steps to bring about an Act for the federation, which came into operation on August 31, 1963. This date is now referred to as 'Malaysia Day'.

However, a subsequent agreement altered the initial plan, shifting Malaysia Day to September 16. This alteration meant that Malaysians in the peninsula and those in Sabah and Sarawak were intended to celebrate on the same day, united as one independent nation. The intention was that on August 31, Malaysians in the peninsula would shout 'Merdeka' and their counterparts in Sabah and Sarawak would join in unison.

As the two significant dates of August 31 and September 16 draw near, it is crucial to reflect on our shared Malaysian identity. This is the personal opinion of the writer, emphasizing the importance of remembering our unity, regardless of the date.