At times, it sure feels like it’s not easy to be a Malaysian. Too much differences in terms of race, religion, culture and lifestyle. Way too many racial stereotypes. And then there all the questions.

Why are some people being told to go back when they really are from here?

Who was here first?

Who came second?

Who came third?

Why does all that even matter?

I’m the eldest child in my family. Does that mean I have more right to my parents than my younger siblings? Can I tell my siblings to go away because I was here first?

Can I speak up? Can I say something if I’m not happy with what the government is doing? What are my rights as a citizen of this country? Does every question carry the risk of being seditious? Why can’t I just tell people I’m Malaysian? Why do need to specify race, ethnicity, religion and etc? Is unity something that is beyond our reach? Something too idealistic for this country of a melting pot?

No.

In spite of all the differences, it’s so easy for us to come together as one. When we watch a badminton game, ALL of us support Lee Chong Wei without a second thought, simply because he’s Malaysian. The same thing happened with the recent AFF Suzuki Cup match against Singapore.

We can’t resist nasi lemak in the mornings, and crave for banana leaf rice at lunch break. Supper is never complete without some Maggie goreng and teh ais.

Take a look at the east coast now. Every Malaysian is going over to help their brothers and sisters, wading in the flood and mud, sacrificing their Christmas and new year celebrations, regardless of race, religion or ethnicity. Because we are all Malaysians, and we look out for one another.

We don’t need no political slogan to get us united. We are already 1 Malaysia. Always have been and always will be. Don’t let anyone get into your head. Don’t let a small group of extremists or bigots wither your Malaysian spirit.

This is what the whole thing is about. I love this country, I love my friends. I’m proud to say I’m Malaysian first. I will not let anyone take that away from me.

If you feel the same way, join us. Amplify our voice. Let’s do this together. #kamijuga25

GOWRI KRISHNAN is a host and assistant producer at DurianASEAN.com, a regional-focus Internet radio. She is also a signee and supporter of #Kamijuga25.