This Merdeka Day was not just a celebration of our Independence; it was a celebration of our students’ diverse and exceptional abilities.

This year’s Merdeka Day at Taarana School once again proved that the spirit of unity, patriotism, and celebration of our nation’s freedom runs deep in the hearts of our students and staff.

The day’s first activity saw the children and teachers gather in Taarana’s activity hall early, starting the celebration by singing the national anthem, Negaraku.

The children were then guided through a proud march waving our national flag, the Jalur Gemilang. They then continued to sing Tanggal 31, a beloved Merdeka Day classic by the late entertainer Sudirman.

Artistic Expressions of Patriotism

The day’s programme also included the children engaging in various creative activities thoughtfully designed to help with their developmental needs, providing opportunities for sensory exploration, fine motor skills development, and personal expression.

The first item was making National Day keychains. With the support of Taarana’s dedicated teachers, caregivers, and therapists, the students were given various materials and guidance to design the keychains featuring national symbols, such as the Jalur Gemilang.

This hands-on activity not only encouraged their artistic talents but also fostered a sense of pride in their cultural identity.

Another inclusive and engaging activity involved an arts and crafts session where the children crafted small national flags. This creative endeavour was purposefully designed to address developmental needs, allowing them to explore their artistic skills while immersing themselves in the artistic elements of the activity.

With adapted materials, they meticulously painted and decorated their creations with our flag’s vibrant colours.

This session served as an excellent platform for the students to learn more about the significance of the Jalur Gemilang and its symbolism.

As the day drew to a close, it was evident that it had been extraordinary for the students and the school. The spirit of unity, patriotism, and the celebration of our nation’s freedom had left an indelible mark on the hearts of the students and staff.

The day’s programme embodied the essence of the inclusivity and belonging that Taarana stands for.

“This Merdeka Day was not just a celebration of our Independence; it was a celebration of our students’ diverse and exceptional abilities,” said Taarana’s Principal, Dr Sunitha Sivakumaran.

“It reaffirmed our commitment to nurturing their talents, promoting a strong sense of belonging, and fostering their love for Malaysia. It was a day that showcased the power of unity, the beauty of inclusivity, and the profound impact of an education that values and supports every child, regardless of their unique needs and abilities,” Sunitha added.