As I approach my journey’s end
I reminisce over the years gone by.
It all began in this beautiful land
Where I expect here too I will die.
I have seen hardships and deprivation
As I was growing up in the kampong.
A period of Japanese Occupation
Which though didn’t last too long.
When the British returned there was euphoria.
Soon enough we were disenchanted.
As the Malayan Union was their agenda
The fire of freedom was ignited.
Merdeka we eventually achieved,
Which promised high expectations.
A united nation was to be weaved
From various races and religions.
We all made our contributions
And our country became a model.
Among all the developing nations
We stood tall with plenty to tell.
Now as the sun sets so our country.
Our vision is torn apart.
O what will the future be
To our nation we impart.
I rest my tired legs and heavy heart.
The fire in my belly is gone.
I call upon the young to to make a fresh start.
Stop the rot and rebuild again.
Tan Sri Alwi Jantan
1st January 2018