Project Petaling Street Blog

Merdeka is week is upon us. For those outside Malaysia, Merdeka is our National Day, and the 48th one at that.

If our nation were a person, he or she (let's just use 'he', I don't like typing) would be past his second bout of mid-life crisis, probably with a slight pot-belly, cringing at or looking forward to retirement. His children would probably be facing major exams, or doing the college gig, which would mean serious financial commitments. He'd probably always be having one sentence conversation with his long-suffering wife, usually with a tinge of sarcasm and unsaid connotations.

Seriously though, as a person Malaysia has seen some pretty harrowing times. From a bout of internal bleeding (changed his dietary habits and lifestyle since then), to a prodigal son ('still my son', dad says), to a tragic death in the family. But there were good times, too. From victories, to marriages, to all-round happy times.

But I suppose in recent years, Malaysia the bloke is well known to be an affable guy, liked by everyone (well, mostly) for being a moderate in his beliefs and diplomatic to his friends. Even to his chain smoking neighbour.

Thanks, Malaysia, dan Selamat Hari Merdeka!