Friday August 31, 2012

Performances and fireworks to usher in Merdeka Day

KUALA LUMPUR: A large crowd of Malaysians gathered at KLCC to celebrate the country's 55th Independence Day.

The party, which was organised by Petronas KLCC Holdings, showcased performances by local singers Datuk David Arumugam, Soo Wincci and Hafiz, as well as live music, fancy fountain displays and a colourful display of fireworks to mark the celebration.

Among the crowd was 30-year-old housewife Azrina Ishak, who joined in the celebrations for the first time.

United as one: A large crowd gathering in front of KLCC in Kuala Lumpur with flags and banners to usher in Merdeka day at the stroke of midnight.

“I usually just exchange greetings among family members and friends, but since this is the 55th celebration, I thought we should attend this event for a change,” she said.

Most of the crowd sang along excitedly to patriotic songs which were played in between performances.

Psychology student M. Kavitha, 21, said this was her first Merdeka celebration in Kuala Lumpur and described it as very different from the celebration back in her hometown of Kedah.

“Over there, we would celebrate on a small scale. Some friends would organise gatherings at a school or at a nearby coffeeshop. It is really exciting to be here, I can feel the Malaysian spirit all around me!”

In Dataran Merdeka, a large crowd, who were mainly dressed in yellow, gathered for the Merdeka countdown.

The group chanted Janji demokrasi before the countdown began at midnight.

National laureate and Bersih co-chairman Datuk A. Samad Said recited a poem, which he had composed, titled Janji Demokrasi.

Also present at the gathering was PAS deputy president Mohamad Sabu @ Mat Sabu.

The crowd dispersed peacefully at 1am. No untoward incidents were reported around the city.

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