Kuala Lumpur, 31 August 2022 (TDI): Malaysia marked its 65th Hari Merdeka or National Independence Day on 31st August. The day is celebrated with much pomp and pageantry that signifies the unity of Malaysians of all races and creeds.

The day commemorates the independence of the then Federation of Malaya from British colonial rule in 1957.

Towns and cities throughout the country are decorated with flags and shimmering lights. A spectacular parade is observed around Merdeka Square with the crowds chanting “Merdeka” to honor the original declaration of independence.

Moreover, celebratory events and festivities are also observed around official buildings and throughout the public on the day.

Overview of History

On the night of August 30th, 1957 over 20,000 people gathered at the Merdeka Stadium in Kuala Lumpur to witness the handover of power to Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Two minutes of darkness from 11:58 pm to 12:00 am was observed. At exact midnight, marking the start of 31st August, Union Flag was lowered and the new Flag of Malaya was raised. Additionally, the new national anthem Negaraku was played.

Moreover, government officials shouted “Merdeka!” seven times as a declaration of freedom. The first Prime Minister of Malaysia called it the greatest moment in the life of the Malayan people in a speech that followed the ceremony.

However, Malaysia was officially formed in 1963 when the four entities of North Borneo, Sarawak, Singapore, and Malaya joined the Federation of Malaya. This event is marked by Malaysia Day.

Celebrations at Dataran Merdeka

The Independence Day of Malaysia was celebrated today with the theme “Malaysian Family, Stronger Together”. More than 50,000 people joined the officials in celebrations and parades at the Dataran Merdeka.

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah joined the parade.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, members of the cabinet, diplomats, and foreign representatives also attended the celebration.

The 2022 National Day celebration today started with the singing of the national anthem and then the hoisting of the Jalur Gemilang. Consequently, it was accompanied by a 14-gun salute symbolizing the 14 states in Malaysia.

Additionally, the celebrative atmosphere was enlivened when the theme song for the event, Keluarga Malaysia Teguh Bersama (Malaysian Family Strong Together) echoed in the air.

Remarks by the Prime Minister

The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Ismail Sabri Yaakob also joined the country in Independence Day celebrations. During the address, he highlighted that the modern form of colonialism is emerging now namely with the economy, technology, and culture.

He emphasized that only the love for the country would allow Malaysians to continue working together and unite to defend the values of peace, harmony, and independence. The Prime Minister said that these are needed to safeguard the country’s sovereignty.

The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to express his gratitude to national heroes and security personnel. He added that their contributions allowed Malaysians today to enjoy the fruits of independence.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Ismail urged the young generation to carry on the struggle to preserve Malaysia’s sovereignty.

Consequently, he expressed his pleasure in seeing celebrations of National Day after a long time period of COVID-19 restrictions.

The Prime Minister concluded with the remarks that the people of Malaysia are the backbone of the country. He added that they are also the motivation for the Prime Minister himself to work with more motivation for the country.

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