RM1 million for Tugu Negara: Where is our dignity?

MANY people were quick to react after learning that the United States had contributed about RM1 million to restore the Tugu Negara. To them, it seemed strange.

How could a country that has consistently criticised Washington's policies in West Asia so readily accept a cheque from the very same nation?

To this author, this is not a question of hypocrisy. It is diplomacy.

Malaysia has long upheld a policy of neutrality. We may disagree on one issue while continuing to cooperate on others.

Besides, the Tugu Negara and the Iwo Jima Memorial in Virginia were designed by the same sculptor, Felix de Weldon.

There is a historical connection there. But what this author cannot help but wonder is: why couldn't we have provided that RM1 million ourselves?

Not every Malaysian knows – or even cares – about the history of the Tugu Negara. Yet it commemorates the sacrifice of more than 11,000 servicemen who gave their lives defending the nation.

The 15-metre monument, completed in 1966 on the vision of Tunku Abdul Rahman, is more than just a landmark. It stands as a symbol of the price paid for independence.

On Aug 26, 1975, communist terrorists bombed the Tugu Negara, causing extensive damage. At the time, Tun Abdul Razak launched a special fund to finance its restoration.

Malaysians from all walks of life stepped forward to contribute. About RM1.3 million was raised and the monument was rebuilt through the collective spirit of a united nation.

Today, as Malaysia approaches the 70th anniversary of its independence, we have a national budget worth hundreds of billions of ringgit, yet we still rely on foreign funding to restore the Tugu Negara.

Strange, but true. Because a nation that truly honours its heroes should never leave their memory to be preserved by others.