‘Merdeka’ Chants Echo in the Land of Brussels
KUALA LUMPUR: The cries of “Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!” not only echoed at Dataran Putrajaya and across every corner of the country during the 2026 National Day celebrations, but also broke the silence of the land of Brussels, Belgium.
Proving that the patriotic spirit of Malaysians remains strong even when far from home, about 250 Malaysians in Belgium and Luxembourg gathered to enliven the 69th National Day celebration.
The event was organised by the Malaysian Embassy in Brussels, with Malaysia’s Ambassador to Belgium, Luxembourg, and the European Union, Datuk Mohd Khalid Abbasi Abdul Razak, as the host.
The celebration began with the singing of the national anthem, “Negaraku,” followed by the recitation of the pledge led by Mohd Khalid.
He said that independence is not just a historical record, but rather a trust that must be preserved, cherished, and defended by every Malaysian, wherever they may be.
“The struggle to achieve independence was not something gained easily. There was sweat that flowed, tears that fell, and even blood that was shed on this land,” he said in a statement to Bernama.
Mohd Khalid said that Malaysians abroad also play an important role as the country’s small ambassadors in strengthening the image and introducing Malaysia on the international stage.
Also present at the celebration was the President of the Malaysian Association of Belgium and Luxembourg (MABL), Sarala Vanherck, who described the annual celebration as an important platform to unite the Malaysian community in both countries.
She said the celebration can also cultivate and nurture the spirit of love for the homeland among the younger generation growing up abroad.
The presence of the national hockey team, the “Speedy Tigers,” who are competing in the 2026 Hockey World Championship in Brussels, added to the festivity, thus evoking a sense of pride in the country’s achievements on the world stage.
The aroma and taste of Malaysia also brought the atmosphere to life when guests were served various local dishes, including Nasi Kak Wok, fried chicken, northern-style chicken vermicelli, chicken satay, and not forgetting traditional kuih-muih (local cakes and sweets).
BERNAMA