Special event: Crowds turned out in force for the Malaysia Day celebration at Padang Merdeka. — Bernama
KOTA KINABALU: A burst of colours filled Padang Merdeka here as thousands gathered to mark the 61st Malaysia Day celebration, despite strong winds and heavy rain in the evening.
Crowds turned out in force with many arriving as early as 4.30pm to enjoy the pre-show festivities before the rainstorm came at about 8.45pm.
Lining the sides of Padang Merdeka were several stalls offering local cuisines and street food.
Themed “Malaysia Madani, Jiwa Merdeka”, the celebration began with Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin symbolically placing a “key” into a specially prepared device, triggering a hologram presentation and LED light show depicting Malaysia’s historical journey – from its formation to current achievements.There was also a breathtaking drone performance, showcasing formations of Malaysia Madani, Jiwa Merdeka, the Malaysia Madani emblem and the flags of Sabah, Sarawak and Malaysia.
Performers dressed in a blend of traditional and modern attire showcased the nation’s progress in a performance titled Rumah Madani: Jiwa Merdeka.
The show was presented in five segments: Negaraku (My Country), Perpaduan (Unity), Dinamik Kemajuan (Dynamic Progress), Transformasi Negara (National Transformation) and Jiwa Merdeka (Spirit of Freedom).
After speeches by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, the leaders gathered on the centre stage to sign a special Malaysia Day commemorative document, symbolising Malaysia’s formation.
This was followed by a cake-cutting ceremony with Juhar and his wife, Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni.
Both Anwar and Hajiji were accompanied by their wives, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Datin Seri Juliah Salag, respectively.
A four-minute video titled Surat Kemerdekaan and produced by Finas Sabah was screened, delivering a powerful message to the younger generation about the importance of protecting the nation – built with sweat, blood and tears – from foreign threats.
Other highlights included a parade featuring the Merdeka Jalur Gemilang Convoy, the raising of the Jalur Gemilang by the Royal Malaysian Navy and the recital of the Rukun Negara. The evening concluded with a fireworks display.For those unable to attend in person, the event was broadcast live nationwide on mainstream television and various social media platforms.
The national-level Malaysia Day 2024 theme reflects the aspirations of all Malaysians for the country’s progress, well-being and prosperity.
Sabah’s Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, who co-chaired the event with Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, said the theme symbolised the government’s commitment to ensuring the values of Madani are embraced by all leaders and society at every level.The term Malaysia Madani represents the government’s dedication to addressing national issues through Madani’s six core values, along with the principles of transparency and cooperation between the government and the people.
Jiwa Merdeka symbolises the freedom of all Malaysians to think, speak and act without restriction, in accordance with the law.
