KUCHING: The atmosphere in the city is rather subdued with modest decorations appearing to be the norm as Malaysia Day approaches.
While a few shopping malls and business outlets have hoisted the Jalur Gemilang alongside the Sarawak state flag, the overall holiday spirit appears muted.
Streets that would typically be adorned with buntings and banners remain largely bare. Even major public areas and tourist hotspots in the city centre only have minimal signs of the approaching holiday, prompting mixed reactions from locals and visitors alike.
“It doesn’t really feel like a national celebration. Yes, there are some flags here and there, but it’s not as festive as it used to be,” said a local shopper at one of the malls at Mile 7 here.
But despite the low-key atmosphere, people are welcoming the extended break, thanks to a four-day weekend.
Malaysia Day, which commemorates the formation of Malaysia on Sept 16, falls on Tuesday. Penang plays host to this years’ celebration.
Another shopper cited that most local residents are flocking to other nearby touristic destinations with their families taking advantage of the long weekend break.
Others are said to be taking the opportunity to return to their hometowns outside the city.
Either way, the long weekend is expected to provide a boost to domestic tourism, even if nationalistic fervor seems to have taken a backseat.
Comments on social media among Sarawakians suggest that the low-key atmosphere could be due to a combination of post-pandemic fatigue, economic concerns, or even a growing sense of disconnect from the historical significance of Malaysia Day.
Nonetheless, official events are set to take place on Sept 16, and at the Sarawak-level, it will be celebrated in Bintulu this year.
The authorities are encouraging Malaysians to reflect on the meaning of unity, diversity, and the nation’s shared journey, the values of what Malaysia Day meant to uphold.
