Every year, as August fades into September, Malaysians proudly raise the Jalur Gemilang and belt out patriotic songs. Merdeka and Malaysia Day celebrations rekindle the flame of unity that our forefathers fought for. But let us ask ourselves: is unity something we celebrate only once a year, or is it something we practice every day?
The true spirit of these national milestones lies not in the parades or decorations, but in the values they represent—empathy, sincerity, and a shared commitment to progress. Sadly, now and again, we witness attempts to divide us. Whether through politics that play on race and religion, or through social behaviour that breeds exclusivity and favouritism, these acts chip away at the harmony we hold dear.
This “divide and rule” mentality has no place in a Malaysia that dreams of greatness. Our strength has always been in our diversity, and history has shown us that progress comes when we choose understanding over suspicion, and unity over division.
It’s easy to speak of unity in grand terms, but what does it look like on the ground? Here in Subang Jaya, it looks like neighbours coming together to improve their surroundings. It looks like residents uniting to demand better roads, efficient waste management, and safe public spaces; needs that cut across every race, faith, and background.
As we step into the last month of the third quarter of 2025, our city faces challenges that require cooperation, not confrontation. Infrastructure maintenance, traffic congestion, and sustainable development cannot be solved by finger-pointing or selfish agendas. They demand sincerity, collaboration, and leadership that prioritises people over politics.
So, as the Jalur Gemilang waves proudly in our streets, let’s not stop at symbolism. Let’s ask ourselves: how can we practice unity in our daily lives? Can we choose to listen instead of judge? Can we extend a helping hand instead of closing our doors? Can we speak up against discrimination and call out behaviours that seek to divide us?
Unity should not be seasonal. It should be our way of life. The Merdeka spirit must live in our conversations, in our decisions, and in the way we treat one another. When we stand together, no divisive voice—however loud—can drown out the harmony of a united Malaysia.
And here in Subang Jaya, we must lead by example. Residents must stay engaged. Show up at community meetings. Speak out when something needs fixing. Do not leave the work of unity to chance or to others. It begins with us.
To our elected representatives and city council, the call is even louder: put aside political games and focus on what matters—our safety, our roads, our public amenities, our quality of life. We expect accountability, not excuses. We expect solutions, not slogans.
This Merdeka and Malaysia Day, let’s move from words to action. Let’s prove that Subang Jaya can be more than a vibrant city. We can be a model of unity and progress for the nation. The time to act is now, together.
“Rakyat Disantuni” is not just our motto; it must be our mission.
Time for Accountability: Our Councillors’ Report Card
As we speak about unity and shared responsibility, we cannot ignore those entrusted with the task of making Subang Jaya a better place – our appointed city councillors. Their two-year term is coming to an end, and soon, some will be renewed while others may be replaced.
This is the perfect time to ask the tough questions: How have they fared? Have they truly served the community, or have they fallen short of expectations?
We often measure their presence by the number of events they attend, the photo opportunities they appear in, or the social media posts they share. But that is not leadership. That is optics. What truly matters is impact. Have they been responsive to public calls? Have they improved the roads? Pushed for better drainage to curb floods? Ensured timely maintenance of public facilities? Advocated for cleaner, safer neighbourhoods?
Our councillors play an important role in the wheels of change. They are not meant to be figureheads or door knobs -they should be the drivers of progress, the problem-solvers, the voices for residents who demand better living conditions. Having efficient, responsible, and proactive councillors is not a luxury; it is a necessity.
Perhaps it’s time for a performance report card for each councillor – a transparent record of what they have achieved in their tenure. Not just promises, but results. Subang Jaya deserves leaders who do more than shake hands and cut ribbons. We need councillors who get the job done.
As residents, let us hold them accountable. Let us ask the questions that matter. And as the city prepares for a possible reshuffle of appointments, let it be clear: we want councillors who are committed to real change – not ceremonial roles.
Because at the end of the day, a united Subang Jaya is not just about neighbours standing together; it’s also about leaders who work tirelessly for the people they represent.
