August 2023, SERDANG - The patriotic spirit should always be a fundamental element to be practiced and embraced throughout time. In an effort to uplift this spirit, the School of Graduate Studies (SGS) launched the SGS Independence Month celebration in 2023 on August 4, 2023. Singing patriotic songs, raising the flag ceremony, reciting poetry, and staff sharing sessions made the launch event more meaningful for all SPS members present.

In the pursuit of nurturing this national spirit, SGS participated in almost all activities under the "Semarak Merdeka UPM 2023" program, organized by the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Cultural and Arts Center (PKKSSAAS). This series of programs held throughout the month of August served as a catalyst for SPS members to express their love for their country.

Firstly, the SGS choir group, led by Mr. Irfan Ibrahim, presented an original song titled "Madani Malaysia," composed by Mr. Irfan himself. This group, named "Gema Sakti," consisted of 22 participants from SGS representing various units. Intensive training sessions were conducted throughout the month, and a competition was held on the PKKSSAAS Experimental Theatre on August 24, 2023.

Furthermore, the department’s commitment in celebrating Independence Month was evident through their participation in the "Kibar Jalur Gemilang" inter-PTJ competition. The committee led by Mr. Arif Sulaiman, prepared presentation materials using recycled materials, and all performances were the creative work of SGS members. Judges from PKKSSAAS were welcomed with traditional decorations and the singing of the "Jalur Gemilang" (the Malaysian flag) song by the SGS Management team. Independence-themed exhibits, a dashboard showcasing independence-related activities, and poetry recitations added uniqueness to SGS's presentation in the competition.

Lastly, SGS also sent a participant to the inter-college and inter-PTJ poetry competition on August 22, 2023. Ms. P. Pavithra recited a poem titled "Bersila Di Atas Tikar Merdeka" (Sitting on the Mat of Independence) on the PKKSSAAS Experimental Theatre at UPM, with a total of 31 participants.

SGS's participation in all these activities reflected their collective commitment to fostering a patriotic spirit while strengthening the bonds among colleagues within the PTJ.

Date of Input: 06/08/2023 | Updated: 06/09/2023 | aslamiah