Fun, food, friends: Seniors come out in full force to celebrate Merdeka

The enthusiasm of 45 senior citizens couldn’t be subdued on Friday morning (Aug 29). They came in full force – and rightfully so – in the colours of our Jalur Gemilang – red, white, yellow, and blue – and one with a batik bandana and sampin too. So patriotic!

Several were armed with big flags on poles, while the rest handheld their cute Jalur Gemilang, waving as they sang to the tune of Saya Anak Malaysia, Tanggal 31, and Jalur Gemilang. The route took them around the lake of Taman Jaya in Petaling Jaya, Selangor and, while at the Splash Pool, they gathered with a group of boys and sang Negaraku with them, standing in perfect harmony.

After they finished, they exploded into Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj’s words of Merdeka, three times. What a splendid way to instil patriotism in our young!

The event was made merrier through Stan Lee, a Malaysian artist, who brought his Merdeka painting of Tunku Abdul Rahman to share with the group for photoshoots. It was an eye-catcher, a mind-blower, and a rave all on its own – because how often does the average man on the street get to pose with an artist and his beloved painting respectably in a park? How much better can this pre-Merdeka walk/picnic get?

The members of SeniorsAloud are very supportive of each other. The founders of the community came to support the event, and the community leaders came bearing great enthusiasm, excitement, and joy.

Several members sponsored flags, some sponsored food, while others brought fruits, nuts, curry puffs, and cakes. The Malaysian hospitality prevailed, and the camaraderie continued with immense laughter to the tune of the Baby Elephant Walk, Poco Poco, and Macarena. The 45 warga emas (senior citizens) became children again as they floundered through the steps.

The highlight of the day, before it struck 12 noon, was the games of fun that tested the seniors’ quick thinking and teamwork, with 10 prizes sponsored by SeniorsAloud member, Edward Pon.

Moral of the story? Seniors not only performed their national duty, they had their exercise, they enjoyed great interactions, they filled their tummies, they sweated, they had their brains picked and tested, and they all went home fulfilled!