DESPITE heavy rain lashing many districts in northern Sarawak, the spirit of patriotism among the rakyat was undiminished as Merdeka Day celebrations went ahead as planned.

In Miri, children from Tadika Hikmah Miri branches put on lively and colourful displays of unity and patriotism for the public.

Dressed in costumes reflecting the colours of the Sarawak and Malaysia flags, the children sang the national anthem and participated in dances and song performances.

Together with their teachers and parents, they proudly displayed the state and national flags in their classrooms and kindergarten halls.

In updates to the media, the kindergarten management said that most of the pupils are aged four and five.

“We instil in them a love and respect for the state and country. Even at the young age of four, these children show an incredible sense of unity and patriotism. We cultivate these values through songs and talks,” said the teachers.

Numerous flag-raising events were also held in government departments and agencies across the state. Politicians and government representatives organised their own flag-hoisting ceremonies and gatherings in conjunction with the national day celebrations. – August 31, 2024.