KUANTAN: An education adviser from South Africa was impressed with the high sense of patriotism displayed by pupils from SK Kempadang during the school’s National Day celebration here today.
Stefani Clark, who has been attached with the school for almost two years, said it was a rare occasion to witness students and school staffs from various races celebrate the country’s independence, with such fervour.
The 50-year-old described schools as an ideal platform to promote patriotism among the young as it helps inculcate a sense of pride and belonging towards the country.
"This is an excellent programme ... the pupils wearing colourful outfits from the national flag, which showcases Malaysia's unique and diverse cultures. Teachers and pupils were also committed and cooperated in ensuring the programme was a success.
"As a foreigner, today, I witnessed, that despite being multicultural or speaking different languages, the people portrayed that they are united and patriotic at heart. The National Day celebration is not just a celebration of freedom for the country but also helps forge closer relations despite differences in race, culture and religion," she said.
She also praised the role played by the teachers and staffs as educators’ in helping to strengthen racial integration and unity among the pupils by encouraging them to participate in various national-day activities.
Clark is among three education advisers serving in Pahang whose responsibilities includes helping the teachers to adopt modern teaching techniques and improving the school's administration.
Some 1,200 pupils teamed with over 90 school personnel by taking part in various activities including, creating a 40m Jalur Gemilang with their handprints on the school wall.
The excited pupils were also dressed in the Jalur Gemilang costumes and hats with the national flag colours.
One of the pupil, Deepika Ravi, 7, repeatedly flashed a smile and waved the mini-Jalur Gemilang when asked if she understood the meaning of Merdeka.
SK Kempadang headmaster Paiza Md Dom said apart from the school sports day and prize giving day, the school-level national day celebration is also quite popular as it is a very colourful and lively event.