Merdeka & The New Independence in Project Management

SMC SPOC - Sharma Management International - Scrum Master Certification (SMC) | Scrum Product Owner Certified (SPOC®)

Every year on 31st August, Malaysia celebrates Merdeka Day, a defining moment that marked the nation’s political, social, and economic independence. It was the starting point for a young country to chart its own destiny, to grow, and to prosper.

As we reflect on this independence at a national level, perhaps it is time to envision a new kind of independence—an independence in how we manage projects. Specifically, an independence from outdated practices that allow infrastructure projects to contribute to environmental degradation, economic disparity, and social inequality.

From the Bottom Line to the Triple Bottom Line

For too long, infrastructure projects have been justified on the basis of profit alone. While economic returns are important, they cannot remain the sole measure of success. The future calls for a transition from a single bottom line mindset to a triple bottom line perspective. This is where every project is evaluated not only for profit (economic growth), but also for its impact on people (social welfare) and the planet (environmental sustainability).

Project managers must become the stewards of this transition. By aligning project outcomes with human welfare, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity, they can elevate the profession into one that is not only about building structures, but about building a future.

From Silos to Collaboration

When Malaysia celebrates Merdeka, its citizens rejoice collectively and rally around a shared identity. In the same way, project teams must cast aside silos and embrace a collaborative culture that integrates different disciplines, functions, and perspectives.

Only through collaboration can we achieve projects that deliver not just business value, but also social harmony, environmental balance, and inclusive growth.

Embedding Sustainability into Project Practice

Achieving this vision requires discipline and foresight. Project managers must:

Deeply assess project impacts: Understanding both the positive and negative effects on society, economy, and environment.
Proactively integrate sustainability: Building plans that minimize harm and maximize long-term value.
Remain adaptable: Staying ready to recalibrate strategies as new risks, challenges, or opportunities emerge.

By embedding sustainability in planning and execution, project managers will show their ability to act intelligently and responsibly, protecting ecosystems while enabling progress.

A Merdeka Mindset for Projects

Merdeka Day is not a disruption to be resented—it is a reality to be managed. For the skilled project manager, it represents an opportunity: an opportunity to demonstrate foresight, adaptability, and leadership.

By embracing core principles, adopting best practices, and aligning project goals with cultural respect and sustainability values, project managers ensure that when the nation pauses to celebrate its independence, projects continue to progress responsibly and resiliently.

Conclusion

As Malaysia reflects on its independence, project management too must seek a new independence: freedom from short-term thinking, and commitment to a balanced pursuit of people, planet, and prosperity.

This is not just a professional obligation, it is a national responsibility. By aligning projects with purpose, balancing economic growth with sustainability, and fostering collaboration, project managers can become true nation-builders in the spirit of Merdeka.