One of the displays during the rehearsal for 2024 National Day celebrations. - Photo: Bernama

PUTRAJAYA: Visitors gathered to usher in the 2024 National Day celebrations will have an opportunity to enjoy a variety of exciting performances along the Persiaran Perdana parade route on Aug 31.

National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) director-general Mohd Amran Mohd Haris, who is overseeing the performances, said that 17,000 participants from 59 contingents will parade over a 5km stretch, showcasing their unique costumes, assets and performances, from the Youth and Sports Ministry building to Masjid Putra.

He added that among the performances expected to attract the attention of visitors are a parade by 25 uniformed and school bands, a "human terrace" display by 2,000 school students and a weaponless combat performance by the Malaysian Armed Forces.

"The best spot to watch the performances is in front of the Palace of Justice, but seating is quite limited.

"However, the public can still enjoy and experience the National Day celebrations from the designated areas on the left and right sides of the parade route," he told reporters after the rehearsal for National Day 2024 earlier on Tuesday (Aug 27).

Asked about the first rehearsal session, Mohd Amran said there are still some aspects of the parade and performances that need to be refined before the grand celebration, particularly regarding the overall duration of the event.

"We aim to complete the event within two hours. However, today’s rehearsal exceeded two hours. So, we will work to ensure the event proceeds according to the planned schedule, and we will see what adjustments can and need to be made," he added. – Bernama