KUALA PILAH – A retired army veteran expressed his love for the nation by building a nearly five-metre-high replica of the Petronas Twin Towers (KLCC) using plastic bottles in conjunction with Merdeka month celebrations at Kampung Simpang Air Mawar, Johol.
Adding to its uniqueness, the military uniform he once wore during his service is also displayed beside the iconic building replica.
The replica, erected along the Tampin–Kuala Pilah road, has not only caught the attention of road users but has also become a photo spot for locals and passers-by.
Nasaruddin Zakaria, 59, said that although he left the army 13 years ago, the patriotic spirit within him has never faded.
“As a former soldier, patriotism is ingrained in me. We need to showcase this spirit so that society, especially the younger generation, understands the true meaning of independence and struggle.
"If we don’t set an example, people will eventually forget. Now, there’s even a controversy over the upside-down flag issue. So, I hope at the very least, young people will learn to respect the Jalur Gemilang and love the country,” he said when met recently.
Nasaruddin described that creating decorations for Merdeka month has been his annual routine since 2012.
For this year’s edition, the KLCC replica was chosen as the twin towers are synonymous with Malaysia, not only within the country but also globally.
“KLCC is a symbol people recognise. When we build it, they immediately understand it represents Malaysia.
"I used 200 to 300 plastic bottles, collected since June, to complete the replica with the help of my children and villagers. It took about two to three weeks, working in the evenings from 3 to 6pm, as I run my business at other times,” he said.
In previous years, the area around his house and stall was decorated with various motifs featuring Malay culture and the Malaysian flag, including replicas of the keris and tengkolok.
“Besides beautifying the surroundings, it attracts outsiders. Many stop to take pictures and sometimes they dine at my stall too. Indirectly, this benefits my small business,” he added.
Commenting on the display of his military uniform, Nasaruddin said it also symbolises the sacrifices that must be made for the nation.
“To create something, there must also be sacrifice. I’ll only display the uniform for about a month before keeping it back,” he said.
He further expressed hope that all Malaysians would unite in igniting the spirit of patriotism during this year’s Merdeka celebration.
“I hope every Malaysian will raise the national flag at least one at each home to honour the sacrifices of those who fought for our independence,” he said.