LABUAN — Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Tanjung Aru here has recently taken the initiative to instil a spirit of patriotism among its pupils through a series of activities held in conjunction with its 2026 Merdeka programme.
The programme featured activities combining thanksgiving, physical fitness, togetherness and appreciation of the spirit of independence, with the aim of fostering unity, love for the country and a commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty among the younger generation.
The programme began with the recitation of Surah Yasin and a thanksgiving prayer, followed by an aerobics session and brisk walk, as well as performances and the singing of the theme song for the 69th National Day, Aku Berjanji, under the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Kesejahteraan Dinikmati”.
The atmosphere became more vibrant as pupils, teachers and members of the school community, known as SEKATA, joined in singing patriotic songs including Jalur Gemilang, Tanggal 31 Ogos and Keranamu Malaysia.
The highlight was the seven-time “Merdeka!” chant led by SK Tanjung Aru headmaster Mohd Farihi Ab Halim, together with Senior Assistant for Administration Mohd Faisal Haji Moin and Senior Assistant for Co-curriculum Irham Hamid.
The chant was met with an enthusiastic response from the school community, reflecting the strong spirit of patriotism and love for the country among SEKATA members.
The presence of SK Tanjung Aru Parent-Teacher Association (PIBG) committee members Roziah Amin and Hazirah Jahali also added to the occasion and demonstrated the PTA’s continued support for the school’s efforts to nurture pupils with strong character, a spirit of unity and love for the country.
The programme was coordinated by Merdeka Celebration Committee coordinator Noraisah Samin, with the cooperation and commitment of the entire school community.
In his speech, Mohd Farihi urged educators to continue playing their role in shaping a knowledgeable, disciplined generation with a strong sense of independence.
He also reminded pupils that the meaning of independence should not be appreciated solely through celebrations and patriotic activities, but should also be reflected in their daily lives.
“Understand the meaning of independence through discipline, unity and good character. Study hard and become children who are useful to your religion, race and country,” he said.
Apart from the Merdeka Eve programme, SK Tanjung Aru is also conducting various activities throughout Merdeka Month to provide pupils with enjoyable and meaningful learning experiences.
The activities include a Merdeka Choir, Independence Quiz Competition, Merdeka Special Poem Recitation Competition, Kembara Merdeka, Creative Merdeka Banner, Creative Merdeka Hat, Merdeka Water Rocket, Merdeka Yakult Innovation, Independence Scrapbook, Arabic Word Writing Competition and Merdeka Syair Recitation.
The activities not only enliven the Merdeka Month celebrations but also serve as educational platforms to help pupils appreciate the meaning of independence, honour the sacrifices of past national heroes, foster unity and strengthen their identity as Malaysians.
The school hopes such programmes will continue to shape a younger generation that excels academically while possessing good character, discipline, patriotism and a strong sense of responsibility towards religion, society and the country.
