Malaysia celebrates National Day with parade, colourful performances

PUTRAJAYA - Malaysia celebrated its 67th National Day on Aug 31, with thousands of Malaysians packing the streets of Putrajaya to watch a parade packed with dynamic performances and a showcase of the country’s defence assets.

The Malaysian King, Sultan Ibrahim Iskandar, and his consort, Queen Raja Zarith Sofiah, arrived at the Dataran Putrajaya parade grounds at 8am to the cheers of those present.

Sultan Ibrahim drove his own private car, with Raja Zarith seated in the passenger seat.

The celebration marked Sultan Ibrahim’s first attendance at the National Day since he was

sworn in as Malaysia’s king in July.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, arrived for the celebration at 7.54am on Aug 31.

His deputies Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Fadillah Yusof were also seen arriving at the VVIP seating area, accompanied by their respective spouses.

More than 13,000 participants marched at the event which also featured performances by 25 bands and three drumming teams, who were greeted with cheers from flag-waving Malaysians.

The spectators were also awed during the airshow when Royal Malaysian Air Force jets zoomed across the Dataran Putrajaya, with the roar of their engines filling the air.

The Chingay procession made its first-time debut at the parade, showcasing a stunning display of balancing a giant flag, complemented by vibrant lion and dragon dances.

Datuk Seri Anwar praised the event, saying that it “was one of the best” national day parades he had seen, according to Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil.

Mr Fahmi said Cabinet ministers and the public also indicated their satisfaction with the 2024’s celebrations.

He added there were over 100,000 people in attendance at the event.

Student Aina Laili Asyiqin Abdul Shafri, 22, said she was very excited to be watching the parade live.

“This is my first time coming to the parade, and I’m very happy and excited,” she said. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK