GM Klang honours unsung heroes
This time, the wholesale centre chose to honour the sacrifices and roles of school security guards through the ‘Bakul Merdeka Jaga’ initiative.
DIANA AZIS
SHAH ALAM - Aug 31 is a significant date celebrated with great enthusiasm by Malaysians as it marks the independence of Malaya.
The Merdeka Stadium witnessed the historic proclamation of independence by the first Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj on Aug 31, 1957.
After 67 years of embracing victory, various interpretations of the meaning of independence have been expressed by all segments of society and all these views should be celebrated fairly and with an open heart.
In conjunction with Independence Day celebrated on Aug 31, GM Klang Wholesale Centre took a different approach to instil patriotism among its employees.
If previously, independence was closely associated with the contributions of security forces such as the police, military and others, this time, the wholesale centre chose to honour the sacrifices and roles of school security guards through the ‘Bakul Merdeka Jaga’ initiative.
This inaugural programme, held in collaboration with Sinar Harian, involved four primary schools and one secondary school in the Klang district, Selangor and Kuala Lumpur.
GM Klang's Brand Communications Executive Nurhani Yasmeen Mohd Zainan said that this year, they wanted to make a difference by appreciating the contributions of this group, especially those working in schools to ensure the safety of students during teaching and learning sessions.
“We want to recognise the importance and role of security guards who always carry out their duties with dedication to ensure the safety and well-being of teachers and students.
“With the help of the ‘Bakul Merdeka Jaga’ we hope to lighten their burden and meet the daily needs of their families in the most effective and practical way,” she said.
Nurhani said Independence Day would be the right time to appreciate the contributions of this group, considering that peace and prosperity were the foundations of the country's progress.
She said that this initiative was also part of GM Klang’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment to support and appreciate the frontline workers who contributed to the community.
“We hope this contribution will have a positive impact on the security guards by increasing their sense of appreciation and gratitude for their hard work.
“May it boost their morale and motivation to continue performing their duties with full dedication. When efforts are appreciated, it fosters a sense of unity and a stronger commitment to maintaining school safety,” she said.
Patriotic Spirit
Elaborating further on the programme, Nurhani said that this first-time initiative could serve as a motivator to instil patriotism and a sense of pride among security guards.
“It is seen as a way to strengthen the relationship between security guards and the school community in fostering a stronger spirit of cooperation and unity.
“They are the heroes or frontline workers who also play a role in creating a calm and conducive environment for everyone.
“We also want to show that every role, no matter how big or small, is vital in shaping a harmonious community, which will continue to progress,” she said.
She said that each ‘Bakul Merdeka Jaga’ contained essential items such as food, beverages and groceries like rice, cooking oil, toiletries and other necessities.
This initiative involved Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Telok Pulai, SK Jalan Kebun, Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Chung Hua Kota Kemuning, SK Bandar Tun Razak and Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Bandar Tun Razak.
Contribution as a Sign of Appreciation, Enhancing Patriotism
For K Mahaletchumy, GM Klang's initiative to appreciate school security guards could inspire other private companies to come together in fostering patriotism in conjunction with the Independence Day celebrations.
The security guard at SK Telok Pulai acknowledged that it was her first experience receiving daily necessities from a private company.
“I have been working at the school for almost 14 years, and this is the first time I received a basket full of daily necessities.
“Thank you, GM Klang, for recognising our service to the local community,” she said.
Meanwhile, her colleague, Noor Anisah Paniman said nothing was more meaningful than having someone appreciate their role in ensuring the safety of students and teachers at the school.
Although the job as a school security guard is often underestimated by some, the woman stressed that it did not diminish her spirit to provide the best service to the local community.
“The safety of the children at school remains my priority, and when that role is appreciated, I become more motivated to give my best in my duties.
“I also hope that GM Klang's initiative can be continued in the future,” she said.
Love Reflects the Meaning of Independence
For a security guard known as Rohani, independence means a country free from colonisers, no longer dependent on outsiders and standing on its own feet.
However, as someone responsible for the safety of the residents of SK Bandar Tun Razak (2), the woman is determined to ensure that this trust was fulfilled perfectly.
“As a security guard, I need to take care of the students, teachers and most importantly, the school’s property,” she said.
For Isam, independence means showing unconditional love to all members of SMK Bandar Tun Razak.
The security guard said that besides the country being free from the clutches of colonisers, independence also taught him the meaning of treating everyone around him with respect and care.
“I show love by treating the students at school as my own children and I am happy to do so,” he said.
