Defining nationalism
Nationalism (nasionalisme) is the feeling of love, pride and loyalty a people hold toward their own nation and country. It expresses the belief that a people should govern themselves and be free from foreign control. This spirit of national consciousness is often called an awakening (kesedaran).
Nationalism can take many forms, from cultural pride and the revival of language and heritage, to organised political movements demanding reform or full independence. What unites them is the wish to protect the identity and interests of the nation.
Key idea
Nationalism is the spirit of loving one's nation and country and striving to free it from foreign domination and to advance its dignity and welfare.
Key features
- Love of nation and country — a strong emotional attachment to one's homeland.
- Opposition to colonialism — resistance to foreign domination and imperialism.
- Desire for self-rule — the demand to govern one's own affairs and gain independence.
- Unity — bringing people together under a shared identity.
Why it developed
Nationalism grew strongest under colonial rule, when peoples who lost control of their own lands began to demand freedom. It was shaped by education, the spread of new ideas and the example of movements in other countries, and it eventually drove the struggle for independence across Asia, including in Malaya.
Remember
- Nationalism = love and loyalty toward one's nation and country.
- It often expresses an awakening (kesedaran) against colonialism.
- Its ultimate aim is usually independence and self-rule.