Students’ high spirit of independence

  • 27 August 2007
  • Campus Weekend Mail, 24 August 2007
Students’ high spirit of independence

The grand 2007 Patriotic Carnival at Limkokwing University of Creative Technology on Aug 22 saw a massive participation of 6,000 students from 14 public and private universities nationwide.

Officiated by Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Ong Tee Keat, the event that glorified Malaysia’s golden independence also saw the introduction of the “Satu Bangsa, Satu Negara” album, a 10-track Merdeka special compilation.

Two are original tracks while the rest are remakes of traditional patriotic songs to fit the current hop and young trend.

At the carnival, guests were entertained by Limkokwing Global Choir, who sang “Misi Ku, Misi Mu”,  one of the tracks from the album.

The event was a follow-up to the recent launch of the “Mission 2020 – The Final Stretch” publication by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Both produced by Limkokwing, the publication and album serves to ensure all Malaysians, particularly students, understand the importance of Vision 2020 and the mission they must undertake in materialising the country’s goals.

Especially impressed by the album, Ong said: “Not only does it add a unique element to today’s programme, the album also proves that our students can be creative and are able to upgrade standards when given the opportunity.”

In his speech, he also touched on the importance of keeping the spirit of patriotism alive even while focusing on developing human capital. He said the new generation should be mindful of the sacrifices made by their forefathers.

On Malaysia’s achievements in higher education, he said: “In the last five decades, we’ve advanced from having one to 20 public institutions and 31 private institutions. Having students from 150 countries studying here makes us on par with developed nations.

“Malaysia may be small but we’re not short on dreams and fighting spirit. Our achievements particularly in human capital, is clear for all to see.”

The carnival last Wednesday also saw Limkokwing students leading guests during the “Student Ikrar” (pledge) as well as cultural performances by students from participating universities.