What is "independence", what is its significance;
Is it end of subservience, from colonialist's dominance?
Only replaced by cultural influence, spiced with western indulgence;
And hedonistic affluence, emanating from similar confluence!

To those in adulthood, at time of nationhood;
They better understood, struggle for freedom/common good;
From shackles limiting livelihood, constraints on thoughts and mood;
Of Malayans from all brood, in houses of brick and wood!

To those in their teens, at moment of independence scene;
What a time it'd have been, to be young and be seen;
Partaking in act to wean, from colonial master 'has-been';
Upholding a dream so pristine, be part of a nation so serene!

To those still toddling, at time of flag-raising;
Not much for remembering, such joyous happening;
Only aware and realising, during time of schooling;
Significance of timing, August, 31st 1957 a date enthralling!

For post-Merdeka adolescents, perhaps a lil' less of reverence;
Of date filled with significance, for a young nation in emergence;
Flag raising - an instance, 'tis a 'must-do' occurrence;
And concerts by artists of prominence, with fireworks in luminance!

Let's take a step back, to gauge our "independence" track;
Of development on tack, many successful a few set backs;
Of unity generally intact, though oft times appearing cracked;
Of cultural purity being attacked, from shores in faraway pack!

Let's be "independent", in true form not reticent;
In mind and soul, in character and role;
Let's fly the flag, let's also not sag;
Make this country great, for ours and our children's sake!