Hafidz Win’s collection of Merdeka memories

Abdul Hafidz Win, a vivacious chartered accountant from Muar, Johor, has always had an affinity for collecting items. From coins and stamps to teapots and Coca-Cola merchandise, his collection has grown over the years. His passion for history has led him to amass a significant collection of antiques and retro items from around the world, with a special focus on memorabilia commemorating Merdeka.

The 57-year-old initially kept his antique collection at home but later moved it to a dedicated display space in Bandar Tun Razak, where he now rents out these vintage items for events and film and television productions under the name Koleksi Malaya. Hafidz rents out these vintage items for events and film and television productions under the name Koleksi Malaya.

Among his most cherished items are those relating to his family's history, such as his grandmother's cooking utensils and wedding keepsakes. Hafidz finds therapeutic value in maintaining these items, often joking that it's not a burden but rather a form of stress management. He has no idea how many items he possesses, as he has never conducted a stock take.

Stepping into Koleksi Malaya is akin to stepping back in time, with a plethora of old furniture, appliances, and curios on display. Vintage mugs and glasses, adorned with the word "Merdeka," range from 1957 to the 2000s. An unusual item in the collection is a replica of Tunku Abdul Rahman's identity card, bearing the number 0000001.

The walls of the gallery display images commemorating Merdeka, public figures, and events about the country's history. A display cabinet houses commemorative plates bearing national insignia and patriotic motifs. One wall features a replica photo of the declaration of independence at Stadium Merdeka, while another showcases a copy of the Proclamation of Independence written in Jawi.

Images of Tunku and other historical figures are prominently displayed, along with a selection of stamps and first-day covers commemorating Merdeka Day.