Patriotic songs serve as symbols and catalysts of national identity. These songs, ranging from the national anthem "Negaraku" to a diverse repertoire of unofficial anthems, have played a crucial role in shaping the nation's cultural landscape and fostering a sense of unity among its diverse population. The popularity of these patriotic songs can be traced back to the nation's independence in 1957, when citizens had to learn the newly composed national anthem. The newly formed nation would require symbols that function as a catalyst for the realisation of Malaysia. The introduction of radio music education in Malaysian public schools in 1946 marked a significant milestone, as it allowed for the systemic dissemination of patriotic songs through the Radio Pendidikan (Radio Education) program. This program broadcasted songs to primary school students, exposing the younger generation to expressions of nationalism and patriotism through song. 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Author Biography
Shazlin Amir Hamzah, KITA, UNIVERSITI KEBANGSAAN MALAYSIA
Shazlin A. Hamzah is a research fellow and senior lecturer at the Institute of Ethnic Studies (KITA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. She holds a PhD in Ethnic Studies focusing on nation branding and the role of popular patriotic songs in constructing a national identity. Her research interests include the heritage of popular music, identity, nations and nationalism, and ethno-symbolism. She has just recently published her first book entitled Wajah Malaysia Dalam Gurindam Lagu-lagu within which she writes on the history as well as role of popular national songs in the invention of the national identity for Malaysia. In the book, she also discussed the history of the national anthem for Malaysia, Negaraku.
