Malaysians usher in 69th National Day with patriotic celebrations nationwide

KUALA LUMPUR : Malaysians across the country ushered in the 69th National Day in a vibrant display of patriotism, with tens of thousands gathering at major locations to join countdown celebrations as the clock struck midnight.

In the capital, more than 100,000 people packed Dataran Merdeka to attend the Kita Bagi Jadi @ Ambang Merdeka 2026 concert and mark the countdown to National Day.

The historic square began filling up as early as 8pm, with people of all ages waving the Jalur Gemilang against the backdrop of the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The 90-minute concert featured popular local artistes including Aina Abdul, Aman RA, Nadia Aqilah, Asmidar, Haziq Rosebi, Mimifly, Izen Kong and Pasya, accompanied by about 350 performers through a blend of music, dance and storytelling highlighting Malaysia’s history, cultural heritage and diversity.

Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh and Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud.

In PUTRAJAYA, Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah joined thousands at the climax of the Merdeka Eve celebrations at the New Millennium Monument car park, featuring the National Day countdown and fireworks display.

Held in conjunction with RIUH Merdeka, the celebration also featured performances by local artistes including Ernie Zakri, Anuar Zain and Noraniza Idris, followed by screenings of the films Mukhsin and Sepet from 2am.

In SELANGOR, more than 20,000 people gathered at Stadium Kajang for the state-level 69th National Day celebrations.

The event began with the arrival of Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari at 9.20pm, followed by a parachute display by the elite VAT 69 Commando squad and the singing of Negaraku.

This was followed by a parade involving various public and private-sector agencies, as well as decorated vehicles, alongside special performances by the Fire and Rescue Department, police and Malaysian Armed Forces.

The celebrations reached their climax at midnight when Amirudin led the crowd in a resounding “Merdeka” chant, followed by fireworks, a light show and a concert featuring Datuk Ramli Sarip, Datuk Awie, Gerhana Skacinta, Merrah and Wani Kyrie.

In MELAKA, more than 10,000 people gathered at Dataran 1Malaysia in Klebang for the state-level Merdeka Eve celebration, which featured a variety of arts and cultural performances.

Among the headline performers were Datuk Amy Search, Datuk Ziana Zain and Indonesian band ST12.

The crowd stayed on to witness the midnight countdown and fireworks finale. Also present were Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, his wife Datin Seri Zuriyah Abd Aziz, state executive councillors and other state leaders.

In PERAK, more than 20,000 people thronged Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah in Ipoh for Ambang Merdeka X Festival BSAS 2026, attended by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.

The celebration featured a wide range of activities, including the Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah Run, Jualan Rahmah, a thrift market, food and beverage stalls, free health screenings, a karaoke competition, the Tantirana Haunted House, as well as performances at Konsert Malam Tanpa Bintang 2.0 and Pentas Gegar Kosmik 3.0.

The festivities culminated in a fireworks display at midnight.

In PERLIS, the Merdeka Eve celebration was held alongside the state-level 69th National Day celebrations at the Tuanku Syed Putra Sports Complex in Kangar, attended by Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail.

In his address, the Raja reminded Malaysians that independence was achieved through a long struggle, great sacrifices and the unity of people from various ethnic backgrounds.

He said the freedom enjoyed today must be safeguarded and given meaning through knowledge, integrity, unity and a strong sense of responsibility towards the nation.

More than 46,000 people attended the celebrations, reflecting the strong patriotic spirit and love for the country among the people of Perlis.

In KEDAH, more than 30,000 people attended the state-level Merdeka Eve celebration at Dataran Starwalk in Alor Setar.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor arrived at about 10.20pm for the celebration, which began with the singing of Negaraku and the Kedah state anthem, followed by traditional performances and silat demonstrations.

In his address, Muhammad Sanusi urged Malaysians to remain grateful for the independence they enjoy today, while stressing that it must be cherished, protected and defended.

In KELANTAN, 69 contingents representing various federal and state government agencies as well as private organisations took part in the state-level National Day parade at Stadium Sultan Muhammad IV in Kota Bharu.

The contingents included the Prisons Department, Air Kelantan Sdn Bhd and Politeknik Kota Bharu.

Menteri Besar Datuk Mohd Nassuruddin Daud said the pursuit of development and progress must not come at the expense of Islam, which he said should remain an important consideration in the state’s goals and aspirations.

Meanwhile, in TERENGGANU, more than 5,000 people gathered at Dataran Muara Utara, Kuala Terengganu City Centre for a lively Merdeka Eve celebration featuring a variety of programmes and performances.

The highlight was the singing of Tanggal 31 Ogos and Jalur Gemilang, followed by a spectacular fireworks display at midnight.

While waiting for the countdown, the crowd was entertained by activities including the Forum Bicara Kemerdekaan and performances by renowned nasyid group Rabbani.

Across the nation, the celebrations reflected the diverse ways Malaysians came together to commemorate 69 years of independence — united by the Jalur Gemilang, patriotic songs and a shared pride in the nation’s history and future.