PETALING JAYA, Aug 25 — Merdeka is more than just a day to celebrate, it’s a season that brings out the unity and togetherness of our nation.

This period reminds us of how our diversity makes us stronger and how our collective achievements fill us with pride.

If you’re looking to feel this spirit of unity and pride, watching films that highlight these themes can be a meaningful way to connect with the essence of Merdeka.

These movies not only entertain but also remind us of the values and experiences that bring us together as a nation.

Here are some films to watch this Merdeka season.

Bukit Kepong (1981), directed by Jins Shamsuddin

Step back in time to 1950 with Bukit Kepong, a film that brings to life the heroic defence of a remote police station during the Malayan emergency.

The Journey (2014), directed by Chiu Keng Guan

The Journey offers a touching portrayal of cultural differences coming together in harmony.

The story follows the traditional Chinese father, Uncle Chuan (Lee Sai Peng), who struggles with his daughter Bee’s (Joanne Yew) decision to marry a British man, Benji (Ben Pfeiffer).

Through its heartfelt narrative, the movie beautifully highlights how understanding and acceptance are key in a multi-ethnic society, perfectly capturing Malaysia’s spirit of unity in diversity.

As of December 2019, The Journey was the highest-grossing Malaysian film of all time and won four awards, including best non-Malay language film, at the 27th Malaysian film festival.

Jagat (2015), directed by Shanjey Kumar Perumal

Dive into the gritty reality of the 1990s with Jagat, a coming-of-age drama that follows Appoy (Harvind Raj) a mischievous 12-year-old boy, from the Malaysian Indian community.

Faced with poverty, crime, and a sense of cultural displacement, Appoy navigates the pressures from his father and the allure of his uncles’ criminal lifestyle.

Set against the backdrop of a critical period in Malaysian Indian history, the film explores the community’s struggles and resilience, it resonates with broader themes of unity, national identity, and social cohesion, making it a compelling watch.

Jagat won best Malaysian film and best director for Shanjey Kumar at the 28th Malaysia film festival in 2016 and represented Malaysia at the Asean film fest in 2017.