By Nabilah Saleh
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 1 (Bernama) -- As Malaysia celebrates its 67th Independence Day on Saturday (Aug 31), the sense of national pride and responsibility transcends borders, reaching even the young Malaysian cadets currently undergoing rigorous training at the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs.
These cadets, embodying the spirit of Merdeka, shared with Bernama their reflections on the significance of this historic day.
Mohamad Khairel Adha Mohd Khairee, a cadet from the Class of 2025, expressed deep respect for the sacrifices made by Malaysia's forefathers, that have paved the way for the freedom enjoyed today.
"Merdeka itself means independence or free. The freedom that we have right now is all thanks to the warriors who came before us. The sacrifices they made to keep our country safe inspire me to become a soldier because I want to fight for my country and do everything I can to make my country proud.
“I believe that my patriotism will make people around me realise how great and unique my country is," said Khairel, currently in his fourth year at USAFA.
He added that his commitment to serving his country is driven by a desire to honour the legacy of Malaysia's heroes and to instil a sense of pride in those around him.
Reflecting on the concept of unity that underpins Malaysia's journey to independence, Zarif Mohd Zamrin, a cadet from the Class of 2026 pointed out the collective effort that led to the nation's freedom.
"Merdeka means more than just independence; it means unity as we came together before we could finally achieve that independence. Being in America, where they have had their independence since 1776, they do not know anyone who fought for their independence.
“We Malaysians can still recognise our war heroes, as it has been less than 70 years since we achieved it. This makes me more grateful and inspired to serve my country and push to the end," Zarif said, adding that he will miss another year of not being able to attend the national parade back in his hometown.
For Ummi Annur Syahmina Sohaini, the first Malaysian hijabi woman cadet accepted into a prestigious service academy in the US this year, Merdeka carries a profound sense of responsibility.
As one of the few Malaysian women at USAFA, she feels a unique obligation to represent her country with pride and to strengthen ties between Malaysia and the US.
"Merdeka means responsibility. I carry the responsibility to keep Malaysia’s pride. If Malaysia and the US had bad relationships, I wouldn’t be here. There are many things about Malaysia that I can share with Americans, as simple as telling them we own one of the tallest buildings in the world.
“From a military aspect, sometimes, any good things I learn back home, I implement them here and show my American friends to do the same," she said, noting that the cultural exchange and the role of young Malaysians in fostering international understanding are also significant.
Meanwhile, Akmal Musyrif Mohd Shariff, who will be celebrating Merdeka abroad for the first time this year, said he is truly inspired by Malaysia's war heroes, whose legacies continue to influence the values and training of the nation's future leaders.
The warfighter spirit of Lieutenant Adnan Saidi and Corporal Mat Aznan Awang, a Malaysian Army soldier who served in the Malaysian Battalion (MALBATT) of the United Nations Operation in Somalia II (UNOSOM II), should always be remembered and cherished by the younger Malaysian generation.
"At USAFA, we are trained to become leaders of character, motivated to give our best for our beloved country, in an effort to make Malaysia a well-respected nation, especially in the defence field.
“The Malaysia that we live in today is part of the legacy that the warriors before us have left behind. It is only up to us to decide how we are going to shape our own legacy for the future generations,” said Akmal Musyrif.
Putrajaya has once again been selected as the venue for the National Day celebration this year.
-- BERNAMA
