my Malaysia❤︎

My pride and joy, my Malaysia

"We have landed in Kuala Lumpur International Airport. To all the Malaysians, selamat pulang ke tanah air" haihhh, that phrase never fails to warm my heart. Y'all feel me?

That phrase also indicates that soon, I'll be stepping my foot on to the beloved land I call home again, be it a two-days one-night getaway or months and months of being abroad, that feeling is like no other. Ah, sweet home. (and a step nearer to my beloved Malaysian malls, Pavillion, Suria KLCC, Mid-Valley, you know that's you<3)

Living abroad, I learnt to appreciate my homeland more, and perhaps, I've evolved into a heck of a nationalist, not sure if that's 100% a good thing but idrc :P Being away, the thing I missed the most about home (after food, ofc. Psshh!), was the people. The unity amongst us Malaysians and our spirit. I mean, that's what makes us what we are, right? Where else would you find such variety of races like Malays, Chinese, Indians, Kadazans, Ibans (and the list goes on) all in one country (as locals). Despite having different cultures, religions or political beliefs, we stand united. For instance, we all hate Lin Dan when it comes to badminton, don't we? Boy, the Olympics in Rio sure had brought the best of us together c: Watching our athletes though thousands and thousands of miles away, bringing pride to our name as Malaysians. And I mean, which Malaysian doesn't like the sweet sweet smell of nasi lemak or roti canai, and perhaps some teh tarik or hot milo for breakfast? You can either relate or you're a snake. 

We may be of distinct ethnic groups that spoke different languages and had different beliefs, but look at us now, in 2016, we all are able to speak our official language, Malay (fluent or not fluent), and celebrate each other's festive celebrations together.  

As I type this, I am well aware of the corruptions, scandals, racism arguments and disrespect amongst us we might have happening in our country. It's indeed saddening, we as the current generation should be carrying forward Malaysia's good name, not damaging what our ancestors have achieved for our sake. The actions of even a few individuals is able to bring permanent damage to our country's good name, what more when all of us start throwing away our sense of tolerance, understanding and peace? 

Regardless, I love Malaysia with all my heart for what it is then and now. Our history makes our country what it is today. When I get asked, "Where are you from?" I'd proudly smile and say, "I'm Malaysian" confidently. And questions that gets into my nerves, "Where exactly is Malaysia?" or, "Malaysia, that's the capital of Singapore, right?". The immediate response that comes out from my head is, can you learn your geography? But y'know, gotta act cool and nice, and explain.

Feeling extra love for my country today on its special day [and my grandma's birthday, truly patriotic, she is]. Here's to commemorate the 53rd anniversary of the Malaysian federation, the day in which Sabah, Sarawak, North Borneo, Singapore, and Malaya became one. Also so so grateful for this extra day of the weekend away from IB T.T  

 Happy Malaysia Day, fellow Malaysians!