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actively participate in this event to learn patriotism beyond textbooks. She also mentioned that in
years to come, she hopes that the Bahasa Melayu Department will also be included in this event
and that the spirit of patriotism and teamwork will continue to thrive.

A medley of songs, including Terukir di Bintang, Nona-nona Zaman Sekarang and Ayu
Manis were performed by our fellow students. Then it was the gong-sounding ceremony. The gong
was struck by our beloved principal following her sincere wishes for the event, expressing the hope
that we could instill a strong sense of patriotism not only in the students but also in every individual
in our country. Later on, guests signed on the Merdeka backdrop, which was painted by the students
from the English Language Society and the English Debate Society, featuring the colours of our
national flag Jalur Gemilang. Madam Principal Cheong also led the guests and teachers to look
at the various creative masterpieces produced by our talented students. Then, a group photo was
taken at the Pine Tree Boulevard, signalling the end of the opening ceremony for this event.

Games and Activities

Malaysia Madani Celebration By Cha Min Kyung and Amanda Tan

Opening Ceremony time of reflection, pride, and joy, uniting the
Malaysia's Independence Day is a

nation's diverse communities in a celebration
of freedom and cultural heritage. At Chong
Hwa Independent High School Kuala Lumpur,
By Bernice Ng, Eunice Hee, Bryan Low, Cha Min Kyung, the festivities take on a unique flavour,
Amanda Tan,Kendrick Yap Ee Jun, Kua Sue Jane
incorporating traditional Malaysian games and
activities that promote community spirit and
cultural appreciation. Here is a closer look at
To celebrate Malaysia’s Independence Day and some of the engaging activities organised for
promote patriotism in our school, uniting us all as one, the this year’s celebration.
English Language department and the Chinese Language
department worked together to organise a fascinating event Firstly we had Batu Seremban, a classic
“Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka” which aims to instil the Malaysian game, loved by both children and
spirit of unity among the nation and help students understand adults. Players toss small, weighted stones,
the importance of embracing and learning the diverse cultures aiming to catch them in various configurations.
in Malaysia. Congkak boards were also provided for
students to join in a friendly match. Congkak,
Student helpers and teachers were dressed in traditional a traditional board game originating from the
costumes during the event to foster a deeper understanding Malay Archipelago, is set to draw in many
of our country’s culture. Before the start of the opening participants. This strategy game involves moving
ceremony, all participants were invited to sing our national shells or stones around a wooden board, with
anthem “Negaraku”. Next, our principal, Madam Cheong the aim of capturing the opponent's pieces, an
Moey Lian delivered an inspiring speech, calling students to excellent way to foster critical thinking.

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76 ......... Malaysia Madani Celebration Opening Ceremony Malaysia Madani Celebration Opening Ceremony 77