Vibrant celebration of independence

PUTRAJAYA: This year’s National Day celebration saw a change in vibe but it was hardly short on excitement, joy and splendour as the federal administrative capital played the proud host to Malaysians to celebrate the nation’s independence.

For the first time since 2005, the celebrations were moved from its usual spot at the historic Dataran Merdeka to Putrajaya to symbolise the administration of a new government.

It was the third time the parade was held here. The first time was in 2003 as a fitting farewell for Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who then was stepping down as prime minister under Barisan Nasional rule.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Muhammad V arrived at 8.10am and was greeted by Dr Mahathir, his wife Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Mohd Ali, his deputy Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The King kicked off the National Day celebrations by inspecting a guard of honour mounted by officers and personnel from the 1st Batallion of the Royal Malay Regiment led by Mejar Asri Che Wil.

As all those present stood at attention to sing Negaraku, a 14-gun royal salute was executed by the 41st Ceremonial Battery of the Royal Artillery Regiment.

Momentus occasion: Sultan Muhammad V flanked by Dr Mahathir and Dr Siti Hasmah on his   right and Dr Wan Azizah and Anwar on his left along with other Cabinet ministers during the 61st National Day celebration in Putrajaya.

Royal Military College student Muhammad Aiman Shafiq Mohd Shah Noor Yong led a group of students in reciting the Rukun Negara and the seven shouts of Merdeka.

Afterwards, a special dance performance entitled Sayangi Malaysiaku – which was also the theme of the celebration – was held.

A contingent comprising youth cadets then marched past carrying a large Jalur Gemilang, followed by other contingents representing various government bodies and agencies as well as private sector and government-linked companies.

As with previous years, the contingents representing uniformed bodies – police and armed forces – as well as the display of their assets received the most cheers from the crowd.

A spectacular air show by the wings of the military wowed the crowd with their breathtaking performance.

The colourful celebration ended with a special performance by singer Faizal Tahir, who also penned and composed the song Malaysia.

Dr Mahathir and Dr Siti Hasmah garnered the loudest cheers from the crowd when the emcee announced their arrival and departure.

The couple came in their official black Proton Perdana with the registration number Malaysia 2020, making its first public appearance yesterday.-Star