KOTA KINABALU: About 5,000 people thronged Padang Merdeka here today to celebrate the 65th birthday of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Juhar Mahiruddin.
The celebration, which began at 7.30am, featured a march-past involving 2,442 participants from 74 contingents from the security forces, public and private sector industries, non-governmental organisations and students.
The event kicked-off with Juhar receiving a salute from the main guard of honour of the 7th Batallion Royal Malay Regiment, followed by the playing of the national and state anthems, as well as 17 artillery shots.
Juhar then inspected the parade contingent teams while accompanied by Major Mohideen Iddin from the Lok Kawi Army Camp.
Spectators at the celebration were also entertained by special performances by the navy and City Hall Enforcement Department.
Present were Juhar’s wife, Toh Puan Norlidah RM Jasni; Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal; Deputy Chief Ministers Datuk Dr Jaujan Sambakong and Datuk Christina Liew; as well as other state and federal Cabinet ministers.
The event will culminate in an official investiture ceremony at Istana Negri and dinner at the State Assembly Legislative banquet hall.
The celebration continues tomorrow with a cycling event which will be joined by Juhar at the Likas Bay Public Park here.
Other events include a special high-tea with orphans and special children at Promenade Hotel on Oct 11; and the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Charity Golf Tournament on Oct 27.