KOTA KINABALU: Locals and visitors alike shared their excitement as they flocked to the Sports Complex here despite a drizzle to participate in Malaysia Day celebration.
At 4.30pm, the complex parking lots which were turned into a fun-filled carnival area saw crowds taking their time to check out the exhibition booths from the various agencies.
The light downpour did not dampen the spirits of the carnival goers as they sought shelter at the booths and took the opportunity to inquire about the many services provided.
More than 30,000 people are expected to turn up at the grand celebration which runs until midnight.
In conjunction with the Malaysia Day celebration, Kota Kinabalu City Hall also provided free bus service between KK Sentral and the Sports Complex between 5pm and 11pm.
With the large crowds and busy programmes, police and Rela personnel were seen making their rounds to ensure security was in place.
Wang Ee Rong, 32, from Taman Fortuna, said he made it a point to visit the Sports Complex after finding out about the carnival.
“I didn’t know there was a big Malaysia Day celebration here until my girlfriend told me last night. I felt ashamed not knowing what’s happening in my own area.
“So today I made it a point to come here and see for myself. I don’t really like crowded places but I enjoy the food trucks and exhibition areas,” he said.
Patricia Pang, 45, from Penampang, ditched her vehicle and took an Uber ride with her family to attend the carnival and main celebration.
The housewife brought along her two children, aged 10 and 12, and a sister.
"It's a national holiday. I want to expose Malaysia Day and the spirit of patriotism to my children so they will appreciate being Malaysians.
"I hope there is no heavy rain but we have brought along raincoats and umbrellas just in case," she said.
Tonight, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak will join the crowd to commemorate the establishment of Malaysian federation.
He is set to bring special message to the people in conjunction with the 54th anniversary of Malaysia.
Najib will be accompanied by his deputy Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Sabah Chief Minister Tan Sri Musa Aman, and Sarawak Chief Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Sabah Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin will attend the event as the guest-of-honour.