Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, flanked by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah, and national leaders, joins Malaysians at Dataran Putrajaya during the 68th Merdeka celebrations. Image credit: FB Anwar Ibrahim Official.
By PHUBIEYAS AHMAD
PUTRAJAYA, Aug 31 — Malaysia celebrated its 68th National Day today with a grand parade at Dataran Putrajaya, attended by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim, Raja Permaisuri Agong Raja Zarith Sofiah, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, alongside Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Thousands of Malaysians from all walks of life filled the square from early morning, waving the Jalur Gemilang and joining in patriotic festivities marked by cultural performances, military displays, and unity-themed presentations.
In his remarks, Anwar said he was deeply moved by the diversity of performances that reflected the nation’s values of togetherness and love for the country.
“Saya amat tersentuh melihat pelbagai persembahan yang bukan sahaja memukau, malah disemai dengan nilai-nilai perpaduan, kekitaan dan cinta tanah air,” he said.
The Prime Minister stressed that Malaysia’s progress depended on unity and mutual respect.
“Malaysia will only continue to progress if we move forward together, as one big family that appreciates our differences and celebrates our similarities. Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!” he declared.
In his Amanat Hari Kebangsaan, Anwar further reminded Malaysians that the annual address was not merely ceremonial but a call to reflect on past struggles, strengthen patriotism, and chart a brighter future.
He urged citizens to celebrate Merdeka with the spirit of MADANI, saying: “Let’s enliven the celebration of our nation’s independence anniversary with the MADANI spirit and a truly independent soul.”
This year’s Merdeka celebration highlighted Malaysia’s enduring spirit of unity, resilience, and shared hope as the nation looks ahead to its next chapter.
- TNS NEWS