Berish.428

The banging of batons on police shields were met with the thunderous claps of citizens on the streets.
The shouts of policemen yelling, "Retreat!" were met with the Malaysian anthem.
Negaraku

Tanah tumpahnya darahku
Rakyat hidup
Bersatu dan maju
Rahmat bahagia
Tuhan kurniakan
Raja kita 
Selamat bertahta
Rahmat Bahagia
Tuhan kurniakan
Raja kita 
Selamat bertahta...

Of the old and young, able bodied and some who were not, gathered together as Malaysians, spearheaded by the desire of change and hope for a country which in this day saw beautiful chaos on its city streets.

In the midst of tear-gas and fear, people inspired and led each other forth. People brushed aside differences, beliefs and selfishness. They became focused on the end goal, they became citizens of a nation which needed to  detach itself momentarily from the notion of being a 'nation-state'.

In all respect, the police were there to carry out their duties. However, it was obvious, with every tear gas fired, their hearts shattered. Many time, I saw the water canons being used -fired on the floor.
 There was a half-halfheartedness about their jobs today. Will they sleep better tonight ? No. Many will ponder the resilience of the people today.

I'm in awe.. of the power of teargas. Even more so, the power of people in making sure fellow citizen is safe.  We laughed, joked and shared concern - salt was passed around. I gave my bag away to a man cringing on his eyes. I felt that perhaps, with every simple gesture of care and concern, opens the eyes of Malaysians that perhaps, yes, we can and will do this. Together.

To a better Malaysia.