In the recent years, some disheartening articles in our news have some Malaysians questioning other Malaysians on their thinking and sense of patriotism. Though these articles are far and between, they are feelings and sentiments that run deep in the hearts and minds of many Malaysians.

Everyday, I slog as hard as the next guy. I struggle to ensure there's food on the table and a good lifestyle for my family while still contributing to my country by way of taxes and a kind smile whenever I can, in spite of these sentiments. I support our constitution's guiding principles that guarantees equal rights amongst all citizens but yet still tolerate preferential policies. All I ask is that instead of criticising me, please just say 'thank you'.

In spite of how some of us feel inside, I, like many other Malaysians, continue to peacefully live life, love life and laugh with life with our families and friends. We commune with our multiracial neighbours, go out for dinners and help each other. But I read how my patriotism and contributions are questioned by people who do not even commune with me. Their rationale serves to undermine many sentiments and inflict hurting wounds.

Just maybe, a lot of this has accumulated because they have forgotten how to say a simple 'thank you' to those doing their part in spite of how they sometimes feel.

We need to realise that everybody's contribution count towards our nation's brand-building. All need and want to feel good for their efforts no matter how menial or how kingly. Instead, we are told to be careful, don't say this, don't do that, don't write this but hang a flag!

We've simply forgotten to say a simple 'thank you' to all our brothers and sisters of this nation who have contributed to our independence, economy and peaceful way of life. Everyone in their own way has helped to forge Malaysia into one of the most formidable and stable countries in Asia and in the troubled world today.

We must stop viewing Malaysia through one's jaded eyes and truly start wanting and believing in a true Malaysia of the world. A Malaysia where unfair policies are cleansed out of its system. Then only will Merdeka truly become a state of mind and not just as an act. We must really take the time to try to understand our differences in order to better know our worth.

Thank you to all Malaysians of this world and may you truly have a Happy Merdeka for all it's worth.