IN celebration of Malaysia’s 66th Merdeka Day (National Day) on Aug 31 and 60th Malaysia Day on Sept 16, the New World Park Food City in George Town, Penang, has undertaken a remarkable endeavour by adorning its food court with a record-setting display of 12,075 mini-flags representing all states.
This stunning display has transformed the premises into one of the most exquisitely decorated locations in Penang, captivating both the locals and visiting tourists alike.
Heng Leng Heng, the operations director of the food court, said he was inspired to decorate his premises with the national and state flags for the Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day celebrations after watching the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Merdeka (National Day), observed on Aug 31, commemorates Malaysia’s liberation from British colonial rule in 1957, while Malaysia Day, established on Sept 16, 1963, holds special significance as it marks the union of the former British colony of Singapore, and Sabah and Sarawak with the Federation of Malaya to form the nation of Malaysia. In 1965, Singapore left Malaysia to become an independent country.
“We embarked on the task of displaying the flags of all the states on June 6 this year. We’re proud of our country and we aim to evoke a strong sense of patriotism.
“Many people who came here earlier mistakenly assumed that our elaborate display of state flags was related to the recent state elections. We did it purely to create an atmosphere of harmony and patriotism.
“Now, the New World Park Food City has now entered the Malaysia Book of Records for having 12,075 mini flags at its premises.
“To mark this achievement, we have invited Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow to witness us receiving the MBR record on Sept 15,” Heng told Buletin Mutiara today.
To enhance the ambience even further, Heng mentioned that the food court would be temporarily closed for four days, starting from Aug 14 (yesterday) to Aug 17 (Thursday), for maintenance work and landscape beautification.
He said as part of the celebration, any patron who likes the New World Park Facebook page or gives a review on Google from Aug 31 to Sept 16 this year would be rewarded with a complimentary mug adorned with printed state flags, a limited-edition recyclable bag, or an ordinary recyclable bag.
When business was hard hit during the Covid-19 pandemic, New World Park Food City introduced a six-month-long lucky draw to entice customers with an array of attractive prizes, including the grand reward of a Perodua Axia.
As Merdeka Day approaches, Buletin Mutiara also spoke to a few Malaysians to get their views.
Below are their comments:
Abdullah Hamdan Abdul Rashid, 20, UiTM Segamat student
“As a Malaysian, I really appreciate Independence Day as it commemorates a big victory for us, Malaysians.
“I have participated in several parades, marching proudly alongside spirited marching bands playing patriotic songs.
“In Penang, Independence Day exudes excitement and fun.
“I really enjoy the atmosphere, as not only marching bands from schools would participate in the parade, but also other uniformed bodies would join in to commemorate the occasion.
“Although I don’t celebrate it yearly, I still have not forgotten the sacrifices made by our forefathers.
“For this year, I am looking forward to joining the Merdeka parade in Segamat, Johor together with my university’s marching band.
“It is very important as it makes me aware that every citizen of Malaysia – whether Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other races – should be grateful that we are no longer under British colonial rule. After we’ve achieved our independence, it is important for the many different races to mingle and live harmoniously as Malaysian citizens.”
Tharchayini Kannan, 22, factory quality control officer
“As Penangites, we should all heed the government’s call by flying the Jalur Gemilang with a profound sense of pride.
“No matter where we are, we should be imbued with a sense of pride when we wave the national flag. The Jalur Gemilang possesses the power to kindle the flames of patriotism within the heart of every Malaysian.”
Nayagi Rathakrishnan, 20, make-up artist
“The essence of love for our nation should forever be an integral part of the Malaysian identity. As such, it becomes imperative to nurture a harmonious existence, fostering mutual affection and unity among our diverse populace, irrespective of distinct races, religions and origins.
“The Jalur Gemilang stands as an emblem of our national sovereignty and hard-won independence, so flying the Malaysian flag shows our love for our country and encourages those around us to embrace the profound significance of freedom.”
Story by Ammar Mikhail Aamer & K.H. Ong
Pix by Christopher Tan & Wong Sook Shyan