Marking end of Merdeka month

By HANA NAZ HARUN | streets@nstp.com.my

NATIONAL PRIDE:SMK Taman Tun Dr Ismail celebrates after a month of Merdeka activities

SMK Taman Tun Dr Ismail students gathered at the school's Dataran Bestari to celebrate the end of Merdeka Month.

There were performances by the students. Adding to the event were a team of body builders from the Royal Malaysian Police and with a special appearance by seven-time Mr Asia winner Sazali Samad.

Before the celebration ended, students and guests were treated to a duet by actress Datin Paduka Umie Aida and the school's headmistress, Datin Hasmah Abu.

Mohamad Sepian Osman, representative of the Bangsar Pudu Zone education deputy director, said teachers played an important role in instilling the spirit of Merdeka in students.

"Without education and guidance, students will not know the true meaning of independence.

"I hope that, as future leaders, the new generation can appreciate Merdeka and strive to fulfil the aspirations of the country."

Umie Aida said students should learn from history.

"They should appreciate history, that we are now free and no longer colonised.

"When I was filming the movie Embun, I could feel the pain that our parents and grandparents felt during the Japanese occupation.

"It is through films and stories such as this that I hope the youth can learn to love and be grateful to those who fought for our nation."

She added that students should be thinking positively and work hard to be able to lead the country forward.

Also present was Taman Tun Dr Ismail police chief OCS Mohd Jamil Mohd Khalid.

Hasmah said students should be all-rounders and not only be good in their studies.

"We want to produce quality students, students who are capable in all aspects of life, not just scoring As for exams.

"In class, teachers do what they are supposed to do, which is to teach and guide our students.

"But, outside of class, we make sure that our teachers help students to build character and give them the chance to explore their hidden talents."

Hasmah added that through activities and celebrations students would understand the importance of unity and harmony in the country.

English teacher Datin Hazlin Hashim who was a member of the team of teachers organising the event, said that it was a day when students could come together as one.

"Mutual respect is important. We want future generations to be able to unite, regardless of race and colour. As teachers, we must teach them, and love them as a whole."

Amirul Hazeem Kamarul Bahrein, a Form V student, said: "I believe that unity is possible. As the future generation of our country, students should start with unity in school, and bring the spirit along with them when they complete school."

Umie Aida giving a speech at SMK Taman Tun Dr Ismail. Pic by Mustaffa Kamal

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Marking end of Merdeka month

NATIONAL PRIDE:SMK Taman Tun Dr Ismail celebrates after a month of Merdeka activities

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