Excitement filled countdown for 65th National Day

After two years hiatus, the National Day countdown celebration went overdrive last night in various locations throughout the country.

Moreover, Malaysians gathered in large numbers to usher in the sixty-fifth year of Independence.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob joined several cabinet ministers, top civil servants and the public for the ”Ambang Merdeka 2022” programme at Anjung Floria, Putrajaya.

Meanwhile, thousands of people flocked to KLCC to usher in the National Day countdown celebration. As the clock ticked to midnight, Malaysians of all ages shouted ”Merdeka” energetically.

However, many disappointedly dispersed after learning there were no fireworks show at KLCC. Nevertheless, the Malaysian flag colours illuminated the twin towers to mark the momentous occasion.

In Ipoh, more than 10,000 people flocked to Dataran Bandaraya to participate in the state-level celebration of “Ambang Merdeka”. The celebration started at 8 pm with performances by celebrities.

Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad, state executive councillors, and top civil servants joined the public to usher in the momentous day.

Meanwhile, the Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, state exco members, joined the public for the Merdeka eve celebration in Shah Alam. The event started with the parade of government departments, uniformed bodies and school marching bands.

The Selangor State Development Corporation (PKNS) organised a separate event at the PKNS Uptown Shah Alam, which saw more than 1,000 visitors coming together to celebrate the occasion.

In Sarawak, Bernama reported, the Merdeka Day eve was ushered in at Dewan Sukan Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan, Betong. The event started with a concert featuring local artists and traditional and contemporary dance troupes from the Sarawak Arts Council.

National Day countdown events also took place in other state capitals.

The National Day celebrations in Dataran Merdeka will be broadcast live on all main television channels in the country today.