A special Merdeka, thanks to Bersih 4

Bersih 4 has finally concluded. I’m going to share two key points about the rally in today’s column.

First, we had a crowd of polite protesters. Second, the protesters had shown their maturity in delivering their demands.

Some time ago during the Hong Kong’s Umbrella Movement protests, I wrote an article, “Polite protest, for real?”

The article put forward the argument that contrary to the stereotypical perception that protests create chaos, a polite protest is, however, possible.

A polite protest does sound unreal for many, but what happened in Hong Kong has proven that there is a place for polite protests.

Those who were on the ground for the last two days would agree that, Malaysians had proved that we were capable of a peaceful and polite protest.

Despite of several undesired minor incidents, Bersih 4 startled many sceptics with its good nature including trash removal and organising supplies such as water and food.

And not to forget, there were lots of singing led by BangsArt and others. There were also artworks by inspiring artists comprising creative socio-political slogans and graphics.

Undeterred with the “propaganda” before the protest, most protesters had shown their role as responsible citizens by showing peace and love under a carnival-like atmosphere.

The organiser, Bersih 2.0, had kept their promise that they would not enter Dataran Merdeka and to also provide full cooperation with the police.

In one small incident when a small group of protesters were trying to break through the barricade, Maria Chin Abdullah, the Bersih 2.0 chairman was quick enough to announce publicly that the organiser would not support whoever attempting to break through the barricade.

Judging from the placards and banners during Bersih 4, the protestors had also shown that they understood the aims of the rally.

The strengths of Bersih 4 this time around goes beyond the numbers or the racial composition.

You can tell it is a non-politically motivated protest. And added to this, it has grown into a mature movement.

All of the participating Malaysians came with the same message to the government, calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

For those who remained sceptical about people's power, please pay attention to what was written on placards and banners in the hands of the especially young Malaysians.

They are asking for a better future for Malaysia, they are supporting the country and they are also defending the dim democracy for not only their children and grandchildren but also yours.

This is a special and meaningful Merdeka Day for many Malaysians. Happy Merdeka, everyone! – August 31, 2015.

* This is the personal opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insider.