Merdeka ads to watch
August is a time of the year that has us Malaysians bursting with appreciation for our beloved country. As the streets come alive with the fluttering of the Jalur Gemilang at shop fronts and from vehicles, we are reminded of the profound significance that this month holds.
In honour of our National Day, we’ve compiled 10 must-watch heartwarming Merdeka ads that will leave you proud to be Malaysian after you’ve watched them. These ads transcend mere entertainment, showcasing the innate beauty of our country and the spirit of its people.
1. Bahagia Kita (2022) – discovering the true meaning of Merdeka
Video credit: Celcom Berhad
Bahagia Kita by Celcom tells the story of a young boy named Haikal HD, who embarks on a quest to discover the true meaning of “Merdeka” after receiving an assignment from his teacher. He ventures across his neighbourhood and meets Malaysians from different walks of life. On his journey, he captures heartwarming moments that emphasises the beauty of simple gestures, such as smiles and acts of assistance, that embody the kindness and helpfulness that define and unite us as Malaysians.
2. Roti Canai Cili Sos vs. The People (2022) – celebrating the beauty of Merdeka
Video credit: Yoodo
This ad by Yoodo takes us on a humorous journey exploring our mamak culture, as a man visits a mamak stall and places an unconventional order – roti canai with cili sos. The mamak waiter is left baffled, and a “court case” involving a made-up Food Combo Act of 1991 ensues.
Through the comical court case, the ad cleverly conveys that we Malaysians all have our quirks and idiosyncrasies which make us unique. It reminds us that as Malaysians, we should set aside our dissimilarities and live harmoniously, celebrating the rich tapestry of our multicultural society.
3. Sehati, Sejiwa, Sekata (2022) – capturing the beauty of unity among Malaysians
Video credit: Etiqa
In this endearing ad by Etika, viewers follow three schoolboys – Aiman, Lee, and Kumar. Tasked by their teacher to do something meaningful for Merdeka, they set out on a mission to display the Jalur Gemilang. With the assistance of Uncle Maniam, who generously provides them with the flags, they go around their residential neighbourhood to adorn every house with the symbolic flag.
As they work together, these young friends demonstrate the true spirit of unity and love for their country. They convey the message of raising the flag with a deep sense of appreciation and patriotism, showcasing the importance of coming together as one nation to celebrate and cherish the essence of Merdeka.
4. #AWalkThroughTime (2014) – showcasing our country’s rich historic milestone
Video credit: PETRONAS
#AWalkThroughTime by PETRONAS tells the tale of friendship between two boys, who embark on a captivating journey through Malaysia’s rich historic milestones, spanning over 57 years – including the first championship in the Thomas Cup won by Datuk Abdul Rashid Sidek. In a series of mischievous adventures, they cleverly transition from a car to a bus, and finally to a train, which is symbolic of the remarkable progression of our country over the years.
By reflecting on the past while fervently aspiring for a brighter tomorrow, the Merdeka advertisement encourages us to take a nostalgic glance at the collective accomplishments that have shaped us as a united nation.
5. Happy Bersama (2022) – highlighting the profound act of kindness
Video credit: Tune Talk
Produced by Tune Talk, Happy Bersama is a heartwarming advertisement revolving around a mak cik in her 50s, who owns a humble restaurant. The story follows a young lady who visits the restaurant with the intention of putting up a Merdeka flag for free. The mak cik warmly welcomes her and insists that she enjoys a meal before she leaves.
To the woman’s astonishment, she discovers that most items in the restaurant are offered free-flow to customers, including drinks and snacks. When it’s time to settle the bill, she is pleasantly surprised by how affordable her meal is.
The mak cik’s selflessness exemplifies the spirit of community and the essence of being Malaysian. It serves as a touching reminder that small acts of kindness can make a significant impact on the lives of others – kita jaga kita, indeed.
6. Show & Tell (2022) – spotlighting the importance of education for the little ones
Video credit: Taylor’s University
Show & Tell by Taylor’s University takes us on a trip down memory lane, transporting us back to our school days within the walls of a classroom. The story revolves around a teacher who assigns her students the task of coming up with a new invention for the betterment of their country.
A young boy named Haziq stands up and shares his idea of creating a robot to assist with daily chores and cleaning. Unfortunately, his peers laugh at him, unaware of the motivation behind his touching innovation. His inspiration stems from his deep concern for his friend and classmate Meng, who is unable to attend school to help support his family, including taking on responsibilities such as doing the laundry and taking care of his younger siblings.
Touched by Haziq’s empathy, the teacher decides to take action. She accompanies Haziq and his friends to visit Meng, offering him educational opportunities at home.
The touching gesture highlights the importance of education, and emphasises the significance of valuing education for the little ones among us.
7. Ketepikan Perbezaan Warna (2019) – breaking free from stereotypes
Video credit: RHB Group
Released in 2019, Ketepikan Perbezaan Warna by RHB is a poignant advertisement which delivers a powerful message about the significance of seeing beyond our skin colour in our diverse Malaysian society. Through its narrative, the advertisement emphasises the importance of breaking free from preconceived notions and embracing each other’s uniqueness. Though just a minute and 46 seconds long, the story is able to encapsulate the powerful impact of coming together as Malaysians despite our cultural differences.
8. Bakar (2020) – teaching the importance of unity and harmony
Video credit: Saji Malaysia Official
This heartwarming ad by SAJI begins with a seemingly tense situation between men of different races, hinting at a potential conflict. However, the atmosphere quickly lightens when it becomes evident that they are merely discussing plans for a friendly barbecue session. This lighthearted portrayal sends a powerful message about the importance of unity and harmony among Malaysians.
9. Leman Loudspeaker (2022) – celebrating our differences & uniqueness
Video credit: Takaful Malaysia
Leman Loudspeaker is an endearing ad by TAKAFUL that tells the story of a man named Leman. When a new neighbour moves into his neighbourhood, Leman takes it upon himself to extend a warm welcome. He then proceeds to share stories about the people living in the community, highlighting their unique traits and what they are known for.
Despite their differences, the neighbours demonstrate a remarkable sense of tolerance and acceptance towards one another – showing the importance of recognising and appreciating the diversity that defines us as Malaysians.
10. Raikan Malaysia Kita (2021) – imparting the beauty of selflessness
Video credit: TENAGAofficial
Raikan Malaysia Kita by TNB is the perfect dose of motivation for Merdeka. It beautifully narrates the real-life stories of four individuals who demonstrate an unwavering dedication to serving those in need, especially during challenging times. With genuine compassion, they extend a helping hand to the most vulnerable, offering free food and selling low-cost meals.
Through their selfless acts of service, these individuals teach us a powerful lesson in sharing and giving. Even if we may not have much to offer, they remind us that the act of giving from the heart is what truly matters.
Heartwarming Merdeka ads to watch in 2023
Merdeka is not only a time to cherish our country’s independence, but also a significant reminder of how blessed we are to be citizens of this united, multicultural country.
So, if you’re thinking of ways to celebrate Merdeka this year, consider watching these heartwarming ads that will leave you proud to be called anak Malaysia.
For fun things to do this coming Merdeka, check out Utama Prawning: late night prawning in PJ and 15 adventurous activities to do in & near KL
Cover image adapted from: Yoodo via YouTube, POSKOD.MY, @takaful.malaysia via Instagram & Celcom Berhad via YouTube
Drop us your email so you won't miss the latest news.
