Laungan merdeka masih bergema dalam ingatan Kalsom Taib

Kalsom Taib, a 84-year-old writer from Malaysia, vividly recalls her 15-year-old self witnessing the Merdeka celebrations in Kuala Lumpur nearly seven decades ago. The writer and culinary heritage advocate was 15 years old when she attended the historical event, although she happened to be in the capital during a school holiday.

She described the lively atmosphere and excitement surrounding the moment, as stalls were decorated to welcome the significant occasion. Kalsom, who is known for her biographies and culinary books that document Malaysia's traditional cuisine, mentioned that many premis were adorned with new Malaysian flags, which held great significance as they were designed by a Johor native.

Kalsom, who now writes memoirs, shared her recollections of waking up early and wearing her favorite outfit designed by her mother, Zainab Ahmad, to attend the historic event. The writer also carried an umbrella as a precaution against the rain, which had started before the celebrations began but cleared up later. Kalsom vividly remembers the excitement of the event, including the Duke of Gloucester handing over the Declaration of Merdeka to Tunku Abdul Rahman, who then recited the Declaration of Independence seven times, to which the Stadium Merdeka crowd responded enthusiastically.

Kalsom also recalled the raising of the Malaysian flag, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the nation's history, and hearing the national anthem performed by the Merdeka Choir, conducted by Tony Fonseka. The atmosphere at the stadium was extraordinary, according to Kalsom, who described it as an unforgettable experience. The writer also shared that she met Tunku Abdul Rahman again on his 87th birthday in 1990 and was struck by his gentle and calm demeanor, likening him to a father figure.

In her new memoir, 'A Life Reimagined: A Memoir,' Kalsom shares her experiences witnessing Merdeka and other significant moments throughout her life, aiming to pass on her knowledge and life stories to future generations while reflecting on the changes Malaysia has undergone.