SEREMBAN: The memory of witnessing the historic moment when the Federation of Malaya flag was raised for the first time to the tune of Negaraku on Aug 31, 1957, remains vivid for freelance photographer Abdul Khalil Abdul Rahim.
Now 87, Abdul Khalil was among the thousands who gathered at Padang Kelab Selangor, now known as Dataran Merdeka, to witness the birth of a nation.
Then just 19 years old, he recalled the powerful sight of the Union Jack being lowered as the crowd erupted with chants of “Merdeka!”, many overcome with emotion and moved to tears.
The retired technician said he walked to the field to be part of the momentous occasion that the people of Malaya had long awaited.
“At the stroke of midnight on Aug 31, 1957, when the Union Jack began to be lowered and our flag was raised with cries of Merdeka, tears of joy and happiness flowed. It was the sign that we were finally free from colonial rule,” he said.
He also remembered the excitement when Malaysians awaited the return of Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al Haj, the nation’s first Prime Minister, from London after negotiations with the British.
“Many youths, along with ordinary people, lined the streets to show support and gratitude for Tunku’s efforts in demanding independence…and for finally succeeding,” he said at his home.
A father of four, Khalil recorded those treasured memories with a Brownie camera he had purchased for RM65, a camera he still keeps today.
Through its lens, he even captured a photograph of Tunku Abdul Rahman, smiling broadly as he announced that independence had been agreed upon.
“When we knew the discussions were successful and that a date had been set to celebrate independence, it was the most joyful and grateful moment,” he said.
Even sweeter, Khalil still keeps newspaper clippings from that historic day, preserving them as a reminder of the nation’s struggle for freedom.
Having endured the hardships of life during the colonial era, facing obstacles in both work and education, Khalil hopes the young generation will learn to value the peace and prosperity Malaysia enjoys today.
“The young generation must be taught the history of our nation’s struggle and the sacrifices of the freedom fighters. The peace and prosperity we enjoy today did not come easily — it was from the blood, sweat, and tears of those who fought for our homeland’s freedom.
“Therefore, we must always strengthen the spirit of independence so that future generations continue to cherish and defend the sovereignty of our nation,” he said. – BERNAMA
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
