#Newsflash: Crowd gathers early despite rain to celebrate National Day 2023 at Dataran Putrajaya

 

PUTRAJAYA: Crowds started building up as early as last night to celebrate the National Day 2023 at Dataran Putrajaya, despite the downpour.

In every direction, a sea of Jalur Gemilang flags can be seen, carried by Malaysians eager to participate in the National Day celebrations. This marks the first celebration held here since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Many were also spotted donning the Jalur Gemilang colours, and some even brought their own canvases and tents to ensure their comfort.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Hajah Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah are scheduled to grace the celebrations at 8am.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Datuk Seri Wan Azizah Wan Ismail arrived at 7.30am.

This marks the 66th year Malaysia is celebrating National Day under the theme "Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan, Penuhi Harapan" (Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope).

The National Day parade will also embody the Malaysia Madani concept, as conceptualised by Anwar, in terms of dance and singing performances, as well as acrobatic acts by the security forces and parade participants.

A special 30-minute Malaysia Madani performance will serve as the curtain-raiser for this year's celebration, aiming to attract 100,000 visitors.

The performance will commence after the hoisting of the Jalur Gemilang flag and the recitation of the Rukun Negara.

New Straits Time