I love the independence months, especially in Malaysia during the month of August where the national flags (called 'jalur gemilang') are hanged outside shops and office buildings. And in each state, the state flags will also be seen sometimes together with the country's flag.
Though its a symbolic of patriotism, but this also adds colours to the celebrations, adding more life to the streets and making it a nice drive around the roads :) This really brings up the spirit of Merdeka (Independent)!
I chanced upon the finals of Indonesia Idol 4. Was very impressed with the finalists performing the song, 'Bendera', in a group on stage, swaying their national red-white flag with full of pride.
As Indonesia celebrate's its coming national day this 17th August, I felt this song was timely (PS: This song was sung by a group Cokelat prior).
Though Im not Indonesian, but it was refreshing to listen to this song which has a very nice modern tune and inspiring lyrics (though simple). Truly love the chorus :)
Here, I like to share the lyrics (in Bahasa Indonesia):
Biar saja ku tak sehebat matahari Tapi ku slalu mencoba tuk menghangatkanmu Biar saja ku tak setegar batu karang Tapi ku slalu mencoba tuk melindungimu
Biar saja ku tak seharum bunga mawar Tapi slalu kucoba tuk mengharumkanmu Biar saja ku tak seelok langit sore Tapi slalu kucoba tuk mengindahkanmu
Kupertahankan kau demi kehormatan bangsa Kupertahankan kau demi tumpah darah Semua pahlawan-pahlawanku
Merah putih teruslah kau berkibar Di ujung tiang tertinggi di Indonesiaku ini Merah putih teruslah kau berkibar Di ujung tiang tertinggi di Indonesiaku ini Merah putih teruslah kau berkibar Ku kan selalu menjagamu
