As I write, many hundreds of thousands of Malaysian Indians, fellow Malaysians and foreign tourists will be descending on Batu Caves, thronging the streets of Penang and filling temples throughout Malaysia in celebration of Thaipusam, the great annual Hindu festival. I’m looking forward to join in the festivities tonight.

For Tamil devotees bearing the traditional burden of kavadi, it is an occasion of atonement and humility.  For the curious-minded, it is a thrilling opportunity to learn about another culture and religious belief, and in doing so learn something about themselves. For all Malaysians, it is another chance to exhibit our appreciation for the cultural wealth we have long enjoyed as a nation, in the spirit of 1Malaysia.

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In my interactions with the rakyat these past few weeks leading up to Merdeka Day, I was asked a number of questions on the state of our nation 52 years after achieving independence. In conjunction with this great occasion, I have summarised these questions, along with some passed along through my senior officers, and answered them below.

After 52 years of nationhood, how would you rate the state of our country in terms of race relations, development, economic competitiveness, and political maturity?

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Below is the translation of my National Day address delivered in conjunction with the 52nd year of Malaysia's independence.

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