Our Gajokai Brothers

Standing for hours at time in positions away from the limelight, the Gajokai are diligently working behind the scenes to support the event and to put our members' mind at ease. With them around, we can concentrate on our practice. What is it like to be a Gajokai in this event? Read on...

Warrence Lim, 35, Petaling Jaya

I’ve just recently shifted to KL from Penang and I'm still learning how the Gajokai group here run things. But I’m totally excited to be involved in this meaningful event – the Malaysia’s 50th Independence Day. I’ve been in the Gajokai for almost seven years now and will continue dedicating myself as one of the group members, protecting SGM members. To me, performers are people on the front line who cry at the end of their performance; the Gajokai members, on the other hand, don’t have time to shed tears because we have to perform our duty once the performance is over! (laughs) It doesn’t matter if we take part as performers or supporting groups, because at the end of the day, we achieve victory together! I must say that I’m very fortunate to be here at this moment of big celebration and be part of it.

Interviewed by z_L3nG

Tai Yee Choong, 38, Kuala Lumpur

If my age allows it, I want to be a performer instead (laughs). Nonetheless, I’m also part of the 8.31 event; contributing to the country as well as SGM. Despite not being able to perform, I’m trying my best to provide a secure environment for the performers and their belongings, appreciating every moment I’m on duty as we only get two opportunities to be on duty during the Merdeka project. I always remind myself to work harder each time. Aside from my main duty on Sundays, I send performers to pickup points on Saturdays too.To gain victory, the ‘kosen-rufu’ spirit that is inculcated within SGM members is the most important element, regardless if you’re a performer or in the supporting groups. Every one is equally important.

I realised that times passes in a flash. I was involved in the first cultural festival in 1982 and as a Sokahan member during the 2nd cultural festival in 1985. With a blink of an eye, I’m now in year 2007. It feels like the events happened only yesterday. Time waits for no man. Thus, we must seize every opportunity to contribute in ‘kosen-rufu’ activities. Take every opportunity to endeavour the challenges that come your way while you’re still young…and taste the victory!

Interviewed by z_L3nG

Wong Kim Cheong, Sungei Buloh

I’m truly happy to be on duty for this Merdeka project. It’s a once in a lifetime opportunity – our country’s 50^th independence day! I am using every moment Ihave in the youth division to accumulate as much experience and good fortune as possible. In fact, I would like to be on duty every single practice of this event, but we have to give opportunities to others also lah. Having been a Gajokai member for over eight years, I have supported many events and have very fond memories of each one. I have learned so much and developed myself tremendously from joining this group. In the past, I used to be very self-conscious because of my illiteracy. Whenever I was called to be an event Gajokai PIC, I would find an excuse to “escape” as I had very little self-confidence. But slowly through the years, I have learned to change my mindset and overcome my weakness. Today, I would gladly take on any challenges be it in SGM or at work. I have learned to apply what I learned from SGM at my workplace.

Interviewed by Braderlouie