Talkback Thursday: Do compulsory slogans and national-anthem singing help build a stronger sense of patriotism among Malaysians?

“Endless Possibilities”. That’s Malaysia’s new slogan that is set to be officially launched this September 17th, a day after Malaysia Day on the 16th. Said to complement the 1Malaysia concept, our Prime Minister had said that is part of Malaysia’s national branding.

Adding to that is the announcement by the Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek that the national anthem, the Negaraku, will be played in cinemas nationwide before the start of all movies. This will begin next Wednesday and will go on for one week. According to the minister, this move is meant to promote a patriotic spirit in the run-up to the country’s 56th National Day on August 31st.

This evening we’re asking: Do Malaysians lack patriotism? Will compulsory slogans and national-anthem singing help build a stronger sense of patriotism among Malaysians?