KUALA LUMPUR: The following are live updates from the 2024 National Day celebration, themed "Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka," which began this morning at Dataran Putrajaya.
The event, marked by grand displays of national pride, included a parade and procession featuring over 17,000 participants, 59 contingents, 24 marching bands, and 439 military assets.
A key highlight this year was the Malaysian MADANI Community Contingent, led by the Ministry of National Unity and featuring 800 participants.
A standout feature was the Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang (KMJG) Contingent, which included 67 vehicles. This contingent marked the 67th National Day, with participants from various backgrounds, including public and private sector employees.
Additionally, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) parade was led by Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Razarudin Husain.
Meanwhile, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) captivated the skies over Putrajaya with a dynamic air show featuring Sukhoi SU-30s, F/A-18D Hornets, and Hawk MK 208 jets.
The celebrations also included a dance performance titled "Cuci Rasuah," dedicated to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's anti-corruption efforts.
Around 10.15am: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and wife Datuk Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail depart, while mingling with the crowd.
Around 10.08am: His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia depart the National Day parade.
10am: The National Day celebrations concludes.
9.45am onwards: 'Cuci Rasuah' dance performance with a stompers concept steals the spotlight.
9.15am onwards: Drumline and unarmed combat performances by Armed Forces among highlights of celebrations
9am: Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) air show starts.
From 8.45am onwards: A large Jalur Gemilang, measuring 80x40 feet, is seen being carried by 100 cadet officers from the Military Training Academy of Universiti Pertahanan Malaysia, followed by 333 bearers of the state flags. Over 17,000 participants, 59 contingents, 24 marching bands, and 439 military assets take part in the parade.
8.40am A band from the Army Music Training Center (Puzida), led by Captain Mohd Rizuan Ramzi, take the lead in the National Day parade.
8.30am The recitation of the Rukun Negara pledge for 2024 National Day by Corporal Mohd Khairul Azhar Abbi Paisa, the hero of the Ulu Tiram police station shooting incident.
8.15am: Celebration starts with the singing of Negara Ku and raising of the Jalur Gemilang accompanied by a 14-gun salute.
8am His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, and Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofiah, Queen of Malaysia graces the celebration.
7.55am: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrives.
7.45am: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi arrives.
7.38am: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof arrives at Dataran Putrajaya.
7am: Celebration officially starts at Dataran Putrajaya.
Midnight: Large crowd start gathering at Dataran Putrajaya to secure the best spots for the 2024 National Day parade.