National Day | Putrajaya
Celebration
Every August 31, all Malaysians, regardless of race, religion and political affiliation, come together to celebrate the country’s Merdeka Day or Independence Day, commemorating the proclamation of independence on August 31, 1957.
On the eve of that momentous day, Malaysians gathered at the Selangor Padang Club in Kuala Lumpur to witness the lowering of the Union Jack and the raising of the new Malayan flag.
The following morning, thousands gathered at the Merdeka Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, where the Queen’s representative, the Duke of Gloucester, presented the symbol of independence to the country’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman; after which Tunku read out the Declaration of Independence and joined the crowd in shouting “Independence” seven times. This historic moment marked the official independence of Malaya. Thereafter, Sabah and Sarawak joined Malaya on 16 September 1963 to form the Federation of Malaysia.
Malaysia's Independence Day is a national holiday celebrated with great pomp and circumstance. Every year a national Independence Day parade is held to mark this important day. There will be colorful performances by dancers and parades by the police and armed forces, as well as beautifully decorated floats depending on the theme of the celebration and the function organized.
Malaysia's National Day is celebrated throughout the country. This year's National Day celebrations will be held in Putrajaya.