Here's a family photo from exactly a year ago when we celebrated our independence day having picnic at a riverside in Hulu Langat. Most people spend time joining independence day parades but for us we always spend the holiday with family gatherings and picnics! But unfortunately this year we didnt planned anything as we have already gathered last week for the Eid.

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Bahtera Merdeka : The independence news.

It has been a while since last i shared my own singing and music here.

So today i want to introduce one of my own favourite classic independence day themed song called the Bahtera Merdeka which the literal translation would be 'Ship of Independence ' or the mission for independence. The song was originally written by Kassim Masdor but it was made popular by Aishah in the year 1996. It is a patriotic song that is rich with traditional Malay's values in both lyrics and music.

Bonda senyum riang,
Menerima bahtera merdeka,
Putra putri sayang,
Putra putri sayang,
Sedang berjuang...

Explains on the happiness of the mother's whom their sons and daughters are fighting for independence. They are proud of their children as they receive news that they will reach independence soon. "Mother" here is referring to the beloved country, calling dear to their brave children.

Fajar telah tiba,
Nan menyinsing membawa harapan,
Tanah Semenanjung,
Tanah Semenanjung,
Permata nilam...

After a long awaited time, the dusk finally brings in some hope with the news to the rich lands. The independence ship finally sailing back home to the precious land in the beauty of the sunset.

(chorus)
Jiwa dan raga,
Buktikanlah pada nusa bangsa,
Supaya negara maju jaya,
Aman merdeka...

A call for everyone to give their all to show their strength for their beloved rich land and prove that they are capable to reach independence and prosper.

( 1 )
Duhai ibu pertiwi,
Putra putri datang sujud bakti,
Demi menunaikan,
Demi menunaikan,
Sumpah dan janji...

The children of the precious land are expressing their loyalty and giving everything to keep their promises to defend them at all cost.

lyrics source

I tried my best to sing this as it was really challenging as its not easy to sing the traditional Malay tunes especially with all the wavy tunes. This song is supposed to be very patriotic and could give burning spirit of fighters to whom listening. Enjoy! :)

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