Patriotism Starts With Small Daily Acts, Says Academic

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 13 (Bernama) — Patriotism should not be viewed solely through the lens of the National Day celebration on Aug 31 or the act of flying the Jalur Gemilang, but also in a broader sense, such as freeing the nation from poverty, corruption and abuse of power.

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Faculty of Communication and Media Studies Senior Lecturer, Dr Abdul Aziz Azizam, said patriotism can be expressed through everyday actions, including prioritising local products, keeping the environment clean, respecting other religions and ethnicities and obeying the law.

“Patriotism doesn’t require a huge cost. It starts with attitude, like caring for public property, appreciating local talent and not littering.

“Small acts like these have a big impact on the country’s image and dignity,” he said on Bernama TV’s ‘Ruang Bicara’ programme last night, which discussed the topic ‘Embracing Independence and Fostering the Spirit of Patriotism’. 

Abdul Aziz reminded Malaysians that independence is a trust that demands continuous sacrifice, not merely an inherited legacy to be taken for granted.

“If we take it lightly, what was built by previous generations can disappear in an instant. Independence must be safeguarded, defended and advanced, or the next generation will blame us for failing to protect what was handed down,” he said.

On instilling patriotism among youths, he said the approach must suit their life experiences, as many were born into a time of comfort brought about by earlier sacrifices.

“Young people may find it hard to relate to the struggle for independence because they never experienced such hardship. Our task is to build a country they can truly love,” he said.

Abdul Aziz suggested that the education system, especially history lessons, should place greater emphasis on local achievements rather than focusing too heavily on foreign successes.

“Few know about ‘Terusan Wan Mat Saman’ in Kedah, the canal built in the 19th century, or the ‘Batu Bersurat’ in Terengganu, evidence of early Islamic influence in the region. Facts like these remind us that our country has its proud heritage and achievements,” he said.

On the role of social media in fueling patriotism, he acknowledged its potential when used wisely, but warned that unchecked negative content can undermine unity.

“The national month should be a time for everyone, including politicians, to reduce hostility. Even with different views, we must find common ground for the sake of the nation. If we remain trapped in racial or partisan sentiments, our love for the country will wane,” he said.

— BERNAMA

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