People enjoying performances at the park while waiting for the new year countdown.
Dozens turn out for new year’s countdown at main square
IT was a special New Year’s Day celebration for Konstabel Farrah Hassan and Konstabel Azizah Zulkiple, cousins who welcomed 2025 together after having secured their dream jobs.
The two women from Sabah have been working side by side after graduating from Air Itam police academy in Negri Sembilan in February 2024.
“Last year, we celebrated the new year together in Negri Sembilan as we were still in training to join the police force.
“Just one year later, here we are, marking the new year in Johor after serving together as policewomen for almost a year.
“This has been one of the most memorable new year celebrations for us,” said 26-year-old Farrah.
Azizah, 24, said she was glad to welcome 2025 with her husband, who is also a policeman, and her cousin.
Nur Ain Fatihah (right) and family at their picnic.
“Although we are cousins, we did not really know each other and had never even met as we lived in different parts of Sabah.
“It was only when we were in the police academy that we finally met in person and became close after getting to know each other better.
“We are grateful to have each other, especially since we are miles away from home,” Azizah said, adding that she hopes 2025 will be a good year for all.
Farrah and Azizah were among throngs of people who made their way to Dataran Bandaraya Johor Baru on New Year’s Eve to usher in 2025.
This was despite the field being muddy following several days of rain.
Some people arrived as early as 8pm and waited, together with loved ones, for the clock to strike midnight.
(From left) Farrah, Azizah and Azizah’s husband L/Kpl Fazli Sabran.
Among them was clerk Nur Ain Fatihah Affendy, 22, who had a picnic while enjoying the night breeze with her family.
“Ever since we were children, my parents would bring me and my siblings here almost every year for the countdown.
“This has become our family tradition and a great way for us to end the year while welcoming a new one.”
She added that the family arrived at Dataran Bandaraya Johor Baru early to avoid being stuck in traffic.
“We had planned to check out countdowns at other places as well but decided to stay here to avoid the traffic,” said Nur Ain Fatihah.
Also joining the countdown was technician K. Arvin, 35, and his secondary school friends.
“It is not easy for us to meet as everyone is busy with family and work commitments.
“We have made it a point to try to gather at least once a year.
“This year, we decided to meet for the new year countdown,” he said.
A wide variety of activities including Zumba, a fun run and performances were held during the celebration which coincided with Johor Baru City Council’s 31st anniversary.
