SHAH ALAM, Aug 30 — Youths are urged to use social media constructively to convey the meaning of independence through content relevant to their everyday lives.
Universiti Sains Malaysia's political sociology expert Prof Dato' Sivamurugan Pandian said today’s generation must ensure independence remains meaningful by respecting diversity, preserving unity, and using social media wisely.
“Patriotism is not only about how we love our homeland, but also about how we reflect on Malaysia’s position every day,” he said.
Sivamurugan added that Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube can be used to highlight content on history, national figures, culture, and the values that shape Malaysian society.
“Social media should be viewed as a tool to enhance mutual understanding among society, rather than as a threat,” he said.
Patriotism can also be expressed through daily activities by expanding one’s knowledge, respecting others, maintaining cleanliness, and refraining from spreading slander.
“Social media has the potential to serve as a platform for the younger generation not only to understand history, but also to build a Malaysian narrative that promotes unity and a sense of responsibility towards the country,” Sivamurugan said.
Meanwhile, engineer Muhammad Syafiq Sidek, 37, said historical content needs to be presented in line with current trends through concise and engaging information-sharing to appeal to the younger generation.
“Appreciating the history of independence is important for the younger generation to understand the country’s origins and appreciate the sacrifices of previous national figures,” he said.
For housewife Husna Md Ansor, 39, parents and schools play a role in giving children early exposure to national symbols and elements such as the Jalur Gemilang, the national anthem, and patriotic songs.
“Classic films such as Sarjan Hassan, which contain elements of the history of independence, should also be screened again on television so that the younger generation can become more familiar with the country’s history,” she said.
