The article discusses the critical issue of inadequate information literacy in Malaysia, emphasizing the need for stronger critical thinking among citizens. With 97.4% of the population online by 2024, the rapid spread of misinformation through social media poses a serious threat to public opinion. Current efforts, such as reactive measures by government agencies, are insufficient, while a proactive approach centered on education and critical thinking is essential. The article calls for a comprehensive national strategy to integrate information literacy into education and raise awareness of critical thinking in the digital age. Ultimately, it argues that true independence, Merdeka, cannot be achieved without independent thinking and the ability to evaluate information critically.