Patriotism and what it really means?

Question: 

How to write an open-ended essay on patriotism?

Answer: 

You can write anything you want in an open-ended essay, as long as you stay on the topic. Since the topic is about patriotism, you can write anything about Malaysia but you should show that you care for the country. 

You can write about  

(1) a fictional story about Malaysia

(2) Malaysian history - how Malaysia became an independent country

(3) your favourite country leader or prime minister 

(4) your favourite place in Malaysia 

(5) your favourite Malaysian food

(6) how Malaysia would be like in 10 years time

(7) the political issues in the country

(8) Malaysian festivals

(9) Malaysian education system

(10) Malaysian people.

The list goes on. You really have the freedom to express your thoughts in open-ended essay! No one can say that you are wrong as long as you stay on the topic. 

Here are some samples of introduction that you can use to start the essay.

Example 1:

Patriotism means more than just standing upright when we sing “Negaraku”, or celebrating National Independence Day with cheers of “Merdeka”. It is about genuine love and loyalty for Malaysia, the burning passion to see our country to be a better place for its citizens to live.

Example 2:

Malaysia is a melting pot of races and cultures, a peaceful land in which Malays, Chinese, Indians and many other ethnic races live together in harmony. Just like rojak which is made up of many different ingredients, Malaysia is made up of different people with different backgrounds and beliefs.

Example 3:  

To know Malaysia is to love Malaysia. A country blessed with ample natural resources, beautiful sceneries and an array of wonderful food, Malaysia is home to a multi-ethnic society who lives together peacefully.

Example 4:

[Or you can have the freedom of writing a story of how patriotism is demonstrated in daily life or through friendship or even the sharing of food.]

Sample sentences you can use to start the body of the essay:

Example 1:

One of the notable aspects about Malaysia is its developing economic state. [You can then talk about what Malaysia does to generate income (eg. rubber, petroleum, tourism etc) and how Malaysia can further improve its economy. For example, Malaysia should work hard to maintain the cleanliness of tourist spots and public toilets to ensure the tourists have a good impression of the country. Tell the readers about your role as a citizen and how you can help to improve the country's image.]

Example 2:

One of the notable aspects about Malaysia is the progress of national sports. [Proceed by talking about Malaysian athletes (eg. Datuk Nicol Ann David, Datuk Lee Chong Wei, Malaysian footballers, Malaysian football coach, Datuk K. Raja Gopal) who show their patriotism by working hard to make Malaysia a proud nation in the eye of the world. Tell the readers the hardships that they go through....]

Example 3:

Being a developing nation, Malaysia is constantly seeking ways to improve on the quality of education that shapes the young generation. [Discuss issues such as the reversion of English in Mathematics and Sciences (ETEMS), the low level of English proficiency among students, the things in school that you are not satisfied with. Talk about the possible solutions and how you can play a part in solving the issues.]

As for the conclusion, you should try to surprise me! Just pick up your pen, immerse yourself in the spirit of patriotism and start writing! We can find ways to improve the essay together next week :)