Merdeka 2025
Dear DISTED Community,
As Malaysia celebrates 68 years of independence, we take this opportunity to reflect on how far we have come. Some among us may still remember the historic moment when Tunku Abdul Rahman proudly proclaimed “Merdeka!”, a declaration that decisions about our future would no longer be made in a distant land but by Malaysians, for Malaysians.
At DISTED, we aim to instill a sense of pride in our country within our community. Our Merdeka celebration is not limited to waving the Jalur Gemilang. We reflect on the meaning of independence through the perspectives of educators and students. We honour those who have served our nation and acknowledge the sacrifices that have secured our freedom.
As an institution rooted in Penang, we remain committed to serving our diverse communities. We believe in making a meaningful difference and continuously strive to improve lives through education and engagement.
To all Malaysians, Selamat Hari Merdeka.
On another note, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to Prof. Vikneswaren, former editor to DISTED Discourse. Since launching the publication in 2023, he has ensured its consistent release and maintained the quality and relevance of its content. Thank you, Prof. Vik, for your dedication and leadership.
President,
Dato’ Lim Si Boon
Embracing Freedom, Embracing the Future
On this Merdeka Day Special Issue of DISTED Discourse, I would like to share a personal note. With this edition, I conclude my 3.5 years’ service as advisor to this newsletter. It has been an honour to guide its growth alongside President Dr. Lim Si Boon, and to now hand over the reins to Ms. Mehvar Khan, who has carried the baton with excellence and dedication.
What started in 24th February 2023 as a daunting task—releasing a four-page newsletter every Friday without fail—soon became a proud tradition. Except for public holidays, Discourse has never missed an issue, and today’s publication (issue number 127) marks yet another milestone. I am immensely proud of how far we have come, and especially of the Merdeka Day editions, which have always held a special place with their rich stories from students, staff, alumni, and friends.
As I ended my 3.5 years with DISTED Discourse on this symbolic day, a colleague asked me – what message do I wish to leave behind? My answer is simple—embrace change with courage. Just as we once proudly listed “Microsoft Office” as a skill in our résumés, today we flaunt the AI tools we can command. Yet the pace of change is so rapid that, in the near future, mastery of AI will be assumed—just as basic digital literacy is today. The real measure will be how responsibly and effectively we use AI to improve our work and our lives.
The 2025 Merdeka theme, “Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni”, captures this perfectly. It calls for compassion, inclusivity, and integrity in an AI-driven world. At DISTED, we prepare graduates to live these values—tech-savvy, responsible, and ready to serve the nation with care.
This Merdeka let us celebrate freedom not only as independence, but as the courage to shape the future with wisdom and humanity. I wish DISTED College continued success in its journey of nurturing future leaders, and may it soar to even greater heights in the years ahead. Thank you for the privilege of serving. With this Merdeka issue, I sign off as advisor for the last time.
Prof. Dr. Vikneswaran Nair
Advisor, DISTED Discourse
Celebrating Merdeka with a New Academic Partnership
As we celebrate Merdeka Day, DISTED College is reminded of the values that unite us as a nation: resilience, collaboration, and the pursuit of progress. In that same spirit, we are proud to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) Global Education, marking the beginning of an exciting new partnership.
This collaboration reflects the essence of Merdeka by breaking barriers and building bridges as we work together to create greater opportunities for our students. With this MoU, DISTED’s students in Penang will gain clearer pathways into SIM’s diploma and degree programmes, alongside opportunities for student exchanges, cultural immersion, and stronger academic support.
We were honoured to hear from Dr. Timothy Chan, Acting Provost of SIM Global Education, and our President, Dato’ Dr. Lim Si Boon, whose words during the ceremony reaffirmed our shared commitment to inclusivity, integrity, and enriching student experiences.
Just as Merdeka celebrates freedom, unity, and growth, this partnership symbolises new possibilities for our students. It empowers them to dream bigger, reach further, and embrace a global future. At DISTED, we remain steadfast in our mission to empower minds and open doors, ensuring our students have the opportunities they deserve.
Our collaboration with SIM Global Education marks yet another milestone in expanding pathways, fostering global connections, and building bridges to a brighter tomorrow.
Dr Lum Li Sean
Head, Academic Affairs
There Is Nowhere Like Home
As our nation celebrates its 68th Merdeka, we take pride in the remarkable journey of developments, achievements, and accomplishments that define Malaysia today. Yet beyond these milestones, patriotism remains deeply rooted in our hearts. It often reveals itself in quiet, everyday moments that we may not immediately realise. Through our words, our actions, and our unity, we show what it truly means to be Malaysians.
My own sense of nationalism was reignited during a visit to China at the end of 2024. Upon arrival, the immigration fingerprinting machine recognised us as Malaysians from our passports and began conversing in Bahasa Malaysia. Although it was powered by artificial intelligence, the familiarity of hearing our national language in a foreign land was a proud moment. It brought smiles to all of us and reminded us that our identity follows us wherever we go.
Still, the most moving moment came when our flight landed back in Malaysia. The captain’s simple announcement, “Welcome to Malaysia, and to all Malaysians, welcome home,” was the most meaningful greeting I have ever heard on a plane. It was more than a gesture of hospitality. It was a reminder of who we are and how far we have come as a nation.
Much of this spirit is shaped by our education system. It has nurtured us to be thoughtful in speech, empathetic to others, and united through a shared language. It has instilled in us values of loyalty and patriotism. Wherever we may be, we carry our Malaysian identity with pride.
There is truth in the saying we all know so well. There is nowhere like home. And for us, home will always be Malaysia.
Malaysia, we love you.
Dr Lum Li Sean
Head, Academic Affairs
Carrying Forward the Spirit of Merdeka
Every year when we shout Merdeka, I do not just think of independence as a historic milestone. I think of my grandfather, Datuk T. Subbiah, who once served as a State Executive Councillor in Penang, and whose life continues to shape how I see independence.
My grandfather served the state government for more than a decade in various portfolios, including as Chairman of the Lands and Mines Committee. He also served as Chairman of the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) and the Hindu Endowment Board for 19 years.
I grew up hearing how he valued people over politics. For him, Merdeka was more than freedom from colonial rule. It was about building a fair and united society. In the State Assembly, he stood for education, community development and ensuring the voices of Malaysians were heard, regardless of their background.
One of his proudest contributions, and the one that inspires me most, was the creation of a Development and Training Student Fund in 1986. It was founded to help underprivileged students from all races pursue tertiary education. Nearly forty years later, my family continues to carry this fund forward, keeping alive his belief that education is the key to equality and progress. To me, this shows that the spirit of Merdeka lives not only in speeches but in the opportunities, we create for others.
As a psychologist, I do not walk the same path he did in politics, but I carry forward his values in my own way. For me, Merdeka is about helping people find freedom within themselves, the freedom to heal, to grow and to live with dignity. Like him, I believe being a people’s person is at the heart of serving others.
This Merdeka, I remember my grandfather not just for the positions he held but for the principles he lived by. His example reminds me that independence is not only something we inherit, but something we continue through the choices we make each day.
Indra Sellappan
Lecturer, School of Psychology
Living in Fear, Surviving with Hope
When Japan invaded Malaysia, fear blanketed the nation. My grandfather, Hj Othman b. Hj Awang, was then a young police officer. His stories from those years still echo with the weight of hardship and courage.
He often described life during the Japanese occupation as living in constant darkness. Families were not allowed to step outside, and his own family remained hidden for days, surviving on small portions of boiled cassava. At night, the lamps stayed unlit as they listened in silence to the sound of boots and unfamiliar voices outside, uncertain if danger would come closer.
But duty did not permit my grandfather to stay hidden. Together with fellow officers, he often slipped quietly into the jungle. The forest offered protection, yet it also posed its own threats. He recalled nights when the moon was their only light and courage from companions their only reassurance.
What kept them alive was not just food and shelter but a deeper spirit of hope, unity and faith. Neighbours supported one another in silence, families shared what little they had, and endurance became a way of life.
When I reflect on his stories today, especially during Merdeka, I feel deeply grateful. Our independence was not handed to us. It was earned through the sacrifices of those who faced fear with courage and held fast to the hope of a brighter tomorrow.
Nur Aisya Najwa Amerrudin
Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
Aryan Brattinga’s Golden Streak
“I believe that there is no ceiling height and everything is attainable. My success to date has only fueled my ambition,” shared Aryan Brattinga, SACE (2025), echoing the Merdeka spirit of unity, purpose, and the unwavering will to rise.
Over the past few months, Aryan has made a powerful statement in Malaysia’s competitive swimming scene. It began at the SportExcel/MILO/NSC/MAS Leg 1 Swim Circuit (16–18 May 2025) at Pusat Akuatik Tuanku Zara, Ipoh, where he competed in the Boys 14 & Over category. Facing older, high-calibre swimmers from across the northern region, Aryan earned two silver medals — in the 200m Individual Medley and 100m Breaststroke.
Just weeks later, at the 9th Super Junior International Swimming Championships (5–6 July 2025) hosted by WAHOO Group at Setia Spice Aquatic Centre, Penang, Aryan delivered a flawless performance. Among over 400 swimmers, he achieved a gold medal sweep in all nine events:
- 50m, 100m & 200m Freestyle
- 50m Backstroke
- 50m & 100m Breaststroke
- 50m & 100m Butterfly
- 200m Individual Medley
From silver to sweeping gold, Aryan’s achievements reflect his versatility, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure. His success brings pride to his family, DISTED College, and Dragons Swimming Academy, whose coaches and teammates have supported his growth. As we honour Malaysia’s journey, Aryan’s story reminds us that the future is bright—with young Malaysians striving to uplift the nation through excellence and heart.
Kesvhinee Ravinthran
Lecturer, School of Pre-University Studies
Merdeka Malaysia 2025: 29 Years of Growing with My Nation
This Merdeka feels extra meaningful to me. I was born in 1996, and now in 2025, I have lived 29 years as a Malaysian. In many ways, my life has grown side by side with the journey of our country.
When I think of Merdeka, I don’t just picture history books or parades. For me, it is about the everyday freedom I enjoy as a Malaysian, the freedom to savour nasi lemak in the morning, char kuey teow for lunch, and chapati at night. It is the freedom to celebrate different festivals, to speak different languages, and to live side by side in diversity.
Our forefathers dreamed of a nation where all races stand as equals. That dream is still alive, but it reminds us that unity must always be nurtured. In 2025, independence means more than remembering the past, it is about carrying responsibility for the future. To respect one another, to choose peace over division, and to ensure no one is left behind.
As an educator at DISTED, I see this future reflected in my students every day. Their creativity, resilience, and dreams remind me that Malaysia’s story is still being written, and they are the ones who will carry it forward.
After 29 years, Malaysia is more than just my birthplace. It is part of who I am.
Selamat Hari Merdeka! Selamanya Malaysia di hatiku, selamanya Merdeka dalam jiwa
Thiresyinie A/P Tamil Chelvam
Lecturer, School of Psychology
What Makes Us Proud to Be Malaysian?
As Merdeka approaches, we asked our Psychology students a simple but meaningful question: “What makes you proud to be Malaysian?” Their answers were heartfelt, colourful, and oh-so-relatable.
Unsurprisingly, food came out on top. From nasi lemak and roti canai to laksa and satay, Malaysian food isn’t just about flavour. It’s about sharing a table with friends from every background. It’s our way of saying, “Let’s makan together!”
Students also highlighted freedom and peace, a reminder of how much we value harmony in our daily lives. Culture and traditions made the list too, with festivals like Hari Raya, Chinese New Year, Deepavali, and Gawai showing the beauty of our differences.
Other favourites included our diversity and unity, the breathtaking nature and places that make Malaysia home, and even the spirit of innovation that drives us forward.
At the end of the day, pride in being Malaysian isn’t found in one thing. It’s the blend of food, peace, culture, unity, and beauty that makes us who we are. And that’s something worth celebrating this Merdeka.
Teoh Ker Hsin
Lecturer of School of Psychology
Embracing Merdeka, Embracing Growth
Merdeka is more than a historical milestone. It is a living reminder of our nation’s courage, unity, and determination. As I reflect on my journey as an educator, I see Merdeka mirrored in my life’s work. It represents the freedom to learn, the courage to dream, and the responsibility to give back.
For 26 years, I have walked alongside young Malaysians at DISTED College, witnessing their growth in confidence and capability. Teaching is not just about delivering knowledge. It is about shaping character, fostering resilience, and inspiring students to believe in their potential. This mirrors the spirit that built our nation, one step at a time and one generation at a time.
Patriotism, to me, is lived through action. My classroom is my contribution to Malaysia’s future. It is a space where ideas are born, challenges are embraced, and students are empowered to carry the torch forward.
This Merdeka, I am reminded that true independence is not only freedom from the past. It is also the courage to shape the future. As Malaysians, educators, and students, may we continue to walk this path together with pride in our hearts and hope in our hands.
To my students: You are the future of Malaysia. The knowledge and skills you gain are not just for yourselves, but for the communities and country you will serve. Dream boldly, work hard, and let your actions be guided by integrity and compassion.
Selamat Hari Merdeka
Seethai Subramaniam,
Head, School of Computing and Engineering
Merdeka and Us
When we hear the word Merdeka, our minds often turn to 1957, the year Malaysia gained its independence. Yet Merdeka is more than a historical milestone. It is a reminder of the freedoms we enjoy today and how we choose to use them to shape the future.
For students, Merdeka carries a personal meaning. It represents the freedom to learn, to explore new ideas, and to dream of possibilities without limits. At the same time, it is about responsibility. True independence calls us to make thoughtful choices, to take ownership of our education, and to prepare ourselves to give back to society. Opportunities come with freedom, but so too does the responsibility of using them wisely.
The sacrifices of our forefathers were marked by courage, unity, and resilience. That same spirit can guide us in our daily lives. Acts as simple as helping a classmate, respecting cultural differences, or putting effort into our studies all reflect the values of Merdeka in action.
As we celebrate Merdeka this year, it is important to remember that freedom is not just something handed down to us. It is something we strengthen with every step we take. By being kind, responsible, and committed to our goals, we honour the struggles of the past and contribute to a future filled with hope.
Merdeka is not only about remembering yesterday. It is about making wise choices today and building a better tomorrow.
Sharizan Abdul Rashid
Lecturer, School of Business and Hospitality
Syair Hari Merdeka 2025
Malaysia MADANI, Rakyat Disantuni
Bersatu padu rakyat jelata,
Mengisi merdeka dengan jiwa,
Malaysia MADANI jadi terasnya,
Rakyat disantuni aman sentosa.
Nilai ihsan dibawa bersama,
Keadilan teguh tiada terbela,
Ekonomi makmur hasilnya merata,
Membangun negara penuh sejahtera.
Ilmu dipupuk jadi pedoman,
Anak muda harapan zaman,
Merdeka diisi dengan ketulusan,
Menjunjung maruah demi kemajuan.
Jalur Gemilang megah berkibar,
Lambang negara teguh terpelihara,
MADANI terpahat sepanjang negara,
Rakyat disantuni, Malaysia gemilang bersinar.
Siti Nur Ayunie Zawawi
Lecturer, School of Communication, Arts and Multimedia
A New Chapter: My Journey with DISTED Discourse
When I first stepped into the world of media and communication, I never imagined that one day I would be editing stories that reflect the core of a college community. Yet here I am, not just a lecturer but also the editor of DISTED Discourse. Now nearly four months and eighteen issues in, I have grown accustomed and aware of why this platform is crucial. It is a space for voices, for reflection and for connection. I have also come to realise that Discourse is not just about reporting events but at its heart, it aims to cover the spirit of our students, staff, alumni and the wider community. Every story we publish is a testament of who we are and what we stand for here at DISTED.
I would also like to take a moment to thank Professor Dr. Vikneswaran Nair, former President of DISTED College and the founding editor of Discourse, for handing over the reins of this newsletter to me. His guidance throughout this transition has been invaluable and his vision for this publication has laid the foundation for what it is today.
When I joined DISTED, I heard wonderful stories about how Professor Dr. Vikneswaran made the last Merdeka issue special. As I went through the past edition, I had to ensure that this year’s Merdeka issue, if not similar, would at least reflect the same passion and care he poured into it. So, through this year’s issue, I hope we capture the same essence and spirit of Merdeka.
While working on this special issue, I found myself reflecting on how Merdeka is not just about freedom from the past. It is also about having the courage to step forward and to lead with integrity. In many ways, Prof Vik’s mentorship has felt like my own Merdeka moment. He entrusted me with this role, giving me the opportunity to grow and serve our DISTED community with purpose.
To everyone who has contributed to this issue, thank you and to our readers, I hope each issue of DISTED Discourse brings you closer to the heart of our college and community.
Here’s to many more stories and to the conversations yet to come.
Mehvar Khan
Editor, DISTED Discourse
