Malaysia Day

Hafiz Ismail
Sep 16, 2024
7 min read

Malaysia Day 2024

Malaysia Day is a significant annual public holiday that is celebrated on the 16th of September each year. This day is dedicated to commemorating the establishment of the Malaysian Federation on that exact date 1963. The formation of the federation was a momentous event that saw the unification of Malaya, North Borneo (which is now known as Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore into a single state However, it is worth noting that Singapore was expelled from the federation less than two years later, on the 9th of August 1965.

Kota Kinabalu

Hosts a Captivating 'Rumah Madani' Performance for Malaysia Day 2024

Kota Kinabalu is set to host a remarkable and engaging performance centered around the “Rumah Madani” concept during the national celebration of Malaysia Day 2024, which will take place on September 16. Datuk Christina Liew, the State Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Environment, who also serves as the co-chairman of the main committee for Malaysia Day 2024, announced that this captivating performance will consist of five distinct segments, all presented in the form of dance at Padang Merdeka. “This extraordinary performance will highlight various facets of Malaysia’s achievements, including themes of resilience, unity, progress, and national transformation, and will involve a total of 100 participants,” she mentioned in an interview with Radio SabahFM on Monday.

In preparation for the event, Liew noted that a full rehearsal for the national-level Malaysia Day celebration is scheduled for September 14, beginning at 6 PM at Padang Merdeka. This rehearsal aims to ensure that everything runs smoothly on the actual day of the celebration.

Furthermore, Liew outlined additional events that will take place during the celebration, including a welcome dance, the signing of a special book dedicated to Malaysia Day 2024, the ceremonial cutting of the Malaysia Day cake, a Merdeka tour convoy, and a ceremony to receive the Jalur Gemilang flag.

The Malaysia Day celebration, themed “Rumah Madani: Jiwa Merdeka,” will also see the involvement of 85 members of the Royal Malaysia Police, who are prepared to ensure that the event proceeds without any issues.

Liew warmly invited the public to join in the festivities and encouraged everyone to arrive early and make use of the public transportation options that will be available.

Attendees can look forward to entertainment provided by artists from the Sabah Cultural Board, as well as local talents such as Elica Paujin, Faizal Tahir, Fauziah Gambus, Amir Jahari, and Stacy. The celebration will also feature a spectacular fireworks display to cap off the evening.

For those seeking official information regarding the Malaysia Day celebration, Liew advised visiting the Merdeka360 website at www.merdeka360.my or checking their Facebook page for updates.

A CHRONOLOGY OF MALAYSIA'S FORMATION

Nowadays Recognised as Malaysia Day

1945

'Malayan Union' was introduced by the British government as a proposal towards independence. At first, it was protested by the majority of the local people because it caused the Sultan to lose power in the political field.

1948

Malaya was declared a state of emergency due to the Communist rebellion.

1949

The first election of Malaya was spearheaded by the Alliance Party namely UMNO, MCA, and MIC representing the 3 main races Malay, Chinese, and Indian.

1955-1956

Negotiations to London led by Tunku Abdul Rahman to discuss the independence of Malaya. Through those negotiations, an agreement was made in February 1956 and independence would officially be granted.

1957

Independence and the formation of the Federation of Malaya on 31 August 1957.

1960

The Emergency was abolished in 1948 because the Communist rebels began to lose power.

1962

Negotiations after negotiations were made to achieve independence for Singapore, Sabah, Sarawak, and Brunei. In the beginning, Sabah and Sarawak agreed to join Malaya but received strong opposition from the Philippines and Indonesia.

1963

The formation of the Federation of Malaysia was formed on 16 September 1963 consisting of 9 states in Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak and Singapore.

1965

However, due to a misunderstanding between the leaders of the central government and the Singaporean authorities, Singapore decided to leave the Union on August 6, 1965 and form a separate country.

WHAT TO DO ON MALAYSIA DAY IN 2024

Variety of activities that can be done on Malaysia Day

Malaysia Day was officially recognized as a public holiday in the year 2010, marking an important milestone in the nation's history. The celebration of Malaysia Day is characterized by a grand national ceremony that brings together people from all walks life. This special serves as an opportunity for Malaysians to come together and celebrate the unity and strength of their diverse population, while also fostering a sense of patriotism among the younger generation. In conjunction with the Malaysia Day public holiday, there are a variety of engaging activities that Malaysians can participate in to commemorate this significant occasion, including:

Join the Malaysia Day Parade

The parade often features a variety of performances, traditional dances, cultural displays, and participation from local communities, reflecting the diverse ethnic backgrounds and rich heritage of Sabah. The event is usually held in Kota Kinabalu, the state capital, but other towns and cities in Sabah also have their celebrations.

Watch a Malaysian Film

Watch a Malaysian film to experience the country's vibrant culture and diverse stories. From thought-provoking dramas to lively comedies, Malaysian cinema offers a unique glimpse into local life and traditions, showcasing the rich tapestry of Malaysia’s cultural heritage.

Explore Malaysia’s Heritage Landmarks

Explore Malaysia's heritage through its iconic landmarks: the colonial charm of George Town and Malacca City, Kuala Lumpur’s Sultan Abdul Samad Building, and the scenic tea plantations of Cameron Highlands. Visit Kellie’s Castle, Ipoh’s Old Town, and vibrant Kota Bharu, then venture into the stunning Mulu Caves and discover indigenous cultures at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Don't forget to admire the Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur.

Experience the Rich Tapestry of Malaysian Cuisine

Malaysian food showcases the country's rich cultural diversity, blending flavors from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Thai, and Indonesian. Known for bold spices and aromatic ingredients, dishes like char kway teow, satay, and rendang reflect Malaysia's heritage and communal dining traditions. Enjoying this cuisine is a delightful culinary and cultural experience

Experience the Petronas Twin Tower

Experience the Petronas Twin Towers and marvel at Kuala Lumpur’s iconic skyscrapers. Standing at 452 meters, these twin towers offer breathtaking views from the Skybridge and observation deck. Explore the towers' striking design and enjoy panoramic cityscapes that highlight Kuala Lumpur's modern skyline.

Visit Batu Caves

Visit Batu Caves to explore one of Malaysia’s most famous cultural and religious sites. Nestled in limestone hills just outside Kuala Lumpur, the caves feature stunning Hindu temples and vibrant statues, including the towering Lord Murugan statue. Climb the colorful 272 steps for panoramic views and an immersive cultural experience.

Explore the Royal Selangor Visitor Center

Explore the Royal Selangor Visitor Center to delve into Malaysia's rich tradition of pewter craftsmanship. Discover the art of pewter making through interactive exhibits and live demonstrations, and marvel at the stunning collection of intricately designed pewter items. The center offers a unique insight into Royal Selangor's heritage and the artistry behind its renowned products

Visit the Thean Hou Temple

Visit Thean Hou Temple, a majestic Chinese temple in Kuala Lumpur renowned for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Dedicated to the Heavenly Mother, the temple features stunning red and gold decorations, ornate carvings, and panoramic views of the city. It’s a peaceful retreat offering insights into traditional Chinese beliefs and practices

Tour KL Tower

Tour KL Tower to enjoy panoramic views of Kuala Lumpur from one of the city’s tallest structures. The tour includes access to the observation deck and a revolving restaurant, where you can marvel at the cityscape while dining. It's a fantastic way to experience the skyline and learn more about this iconic landmark.

Visit the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia

Visit the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia to explore an extensive collection of Islamic art and artifacts from around the world. The museum showcases beautifully crafted textiles, intricate jewelry, and historic manuscripts, offering a deep insight into Islamic culture and heritage. Its stunning architecture and thoughtfully curated exhibits make it a must-see destination for art and history enthusiasts.

Visit Sunway Lagoon Theme Park

Visit Sunway Lagoon Theme Park for an exhilarating day of fun and adventure. This expansive park features thrilling water slides, exciting amusement rides, and a wildlife park, offering something for everyone. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping attractions or a relaxing splash in the lagoon, Sunway Lagoon provides an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Teaching resources for Malaysia Day

Teaching resources for Malaysia Day offer valuable tools to educate students about this important national celebration. These resources include lesson plans, interactive activities, and multimedia presentations that highlight Malaysia's history, culture, and unity. By using these materials, educators can engage students with the significance of Malaysia Day and foster a deeper understanding of the country’s heritage and diverse cultural landscape.

MERDEKA DAY vs MALAYSIA DAY

Malaysia's national holidays

Malaysia Day and Merdeka Day are both important national holidays in Malaysia, but they commemorate different events

Celebrated on August 31, this day marks Malaysia's independence from British colonial rule in 1957. It's a day to honor the country's sovereignty and celebrate its freedom. The name "Merdeka" means "independence" or "freedom" in Malay.

Observed on September 16, Malaysia Day commemorates the formation of Malaysia in 1963, when the Federation of Malaya, Singapore, Sarawak, and North Borneo (now Sabah) came together to form the Malaysian Federation. This day celebrates the unity and establishment of Malaysia as a nation.

In conclusion, Merdeka Day is a significant occasion that honors the liberation from colonial rule, celebrating the hard-fought independence of the nation. On the other hand, Malaysia Day is an important event that recognizes the formation of the Malaysian Federation, highlighting the unity and collaboration of various states to a cohesive nation.

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