Merdeka is often celebrated with pride and joy, but Malaysians believe its meaning goes deeper than a single day.
To Malaysians, true independence is reflected in daily choices whether respecting one another, caring for the environment, or lending a helping hand to those in need.
Patriotism is not confined to a single day. It is reflected in the ways people treat each other daily, whether on the road, in neighbourhoods, or even online.
Nur Anisa Amran, 23, a university student said volunteering to help those in need reflects the true spirit of patriotism.
This, she said is because patriotism is not only about love for the country, but also about how a community, come together to help one another just like the slogan ‘Kita Jaga Kita.’
“I live in a multiracial neighbourhood and the sense of community spirit is very strong. We respect and support each other, which makes me feel proud to be part of it,” she said.
Anisa said if she could change just one bad habit of Malaysians — such as road rage, littering, or queue-cutting — it would be uncontrolled anger behind the wheel, which she emphasised is among the most worrying behaviours.
Meanwhile, Nur Alya Mohd Khairul Fitri, 23, also a university student, defined patriotism as respect through everyday actions.
“Patriotism for me means being proud of your roots and showing respect towards it through your actions like appreciating the traditional cultures, foods, and even ethics,” Alya said.
She described her neighbourhood as harmonious, especially during festive seasons because they would always greet each other and indulge in small talks, which she thinks is a huge factor in creating a harmonious environment.
However, in response to a question about everyday bad habits among Malaysians, Alya pointed out a growing problem online.
“I would say quick to judge is one of the bad habits of netizens that I wish would disappear. People are quick to judge from simple videos on the internet or just from appearances and I hope everyone could stop assuming from what they can only see physically,” she said.
Next, for Allie Yong, 26, another university student, unity means celebrating diversity every day.
“Proud that we as a multiracial live in harmony; to create a better tomorrow,” Allie said.
When being asked the same question on Malaysians’ daily behaviours, she felt that bad habits such as littering were learned young and often ignored.
“Littering is caused by the people that raised us. It is something you learn from a young age and not corrected. I believe people that cutting queues is an attitude (mentality) problem,” she stated.
For her, small gestures like kindness to strangers still matter deeply as she said to be kind even if you are not helpful when you see people who actually need help instead of just being a bystander.
Furthermore, Allie added that it is also important to smile when people smile at you.
On the other hand, millennials echo similar thoughts but often frame them around responsibility.
S.Thanabalan, 29, a service desk analyst said patriotism is a spirit that is nurtured since childhood and it is not something that only comes out during the Merdeka season.
For him, it is about understanding our people’s culture, standing together when there’s a need, being vocal about daily life issues and politics and most importantly, respecting our identity as Malaysians and carrying that name with pride.
“If I could change one habit, it would be road rage. Many times we act on impulse without realising the risks we are creating, not just for ourselves but for others too.
“At the end of the day, our loved ones are waiting for us at home and getting into unnecessary incidents because anger on the road is painful and avoidable,” he added.
On the same note, Nur Amizah Hafizi, 34, a civil servant, linked patriotism to accountability.
“Patriotism is not just about waving flags; it is about showing love for your country through actions. It is about respecting and supporting one another, embracing our diversity, taking care of the environment and being honest and responsible citizens—these are what truly keep Malaysia strong and united.
“Kindness is the simplest daily habit that can transform society. When we treat each other with kindness and respect, we start creating a culture of care and unity,” she said.
She said it is a small effort but can make a big difference in how people connect with one another and build a better Malaysia together.
Syazwan Abdullah, 35, who works in the government sector shared a similar view.
“For me, patriotism is not only about waving the flag or wearing the Jalur Gemilang theme, it is more about the sense of responsibility and love for the country, taking care of cleanliness together, respecting the law, helping one another and striving to be citizens who bring goodness to nature and human beings,” he said, emphasising that true patriotism lies in everyday actions that benefit both society and the environment.
He also highlighted respect as the foundation of unity.
“Respect one another, whether with words, actions, or the way we use public space. Respect is the foundation of unity,” he added.
Across generations, Malaysians agree that Merdeka is not just about the symbols of independence, but about how people choose to live with one another daily.
From keeping public spaces clean to showing empathy, they believe it is the small, everyday gestures that can keep the Merdeka spirit alive all year round.