Malaysia Independence Day

Many countries that were once colonies of European countries celebrate

their individual independence days for thanksgiving and unity. Malaysia, after
being under the British rule for many years, decided that it could stand on its
own and placed a bid for its merdeka, its independence.

In early 1956, several Malayan leaders led by Tunku Abdul Rahman

negotiated with the British for Malayas independence. After much discussion
and debate, the approval was given and August 31, 1957 became the official
date.

On the eve of August 31, 1957, citizens gathered at the Royal Selangor
Club Padang in Kuala Lumpur for the turnover ceremonies. Several state leaders
and foreign dignitaries were in attendance. The lights were turned off for two
minutes, and re-lit at the stroke of midnight. The British Union Jack was lowered
and the new Flag of Malaya was raised as the national anthem Negaraku
played. The people chanted Merdeka seven times.

On the morning of the same date, an estimated 20,000-plus people

celebrated their countrys sovereignty at the Merdeka Stadium, also in Kuala
Lumpur. Rulers of the Malay states were present, as were members of the federal
cabinet, foreign leaders and dignitaries and of course, the citizens.

The Federation of Malaysia

Six years to the day after Malayas independence, a move was made to
officially declare the Federation of Malaysia. This comprised the States of
Malaysia (now West Malaysia), North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak and
Singapore. However, due to protests from Indonesia and the Philippines (who
was considering the use of the name Malaysia), this declaration was moved to
September 16.

However, North Borneo and Singapore had declared sovereignty on August

31, 1963 (two years later, Singapore would officially separate from Malaysia).
Indonesia continued their protests against the formation in the belief it would
colonize some provinces in Sarawak and Sabah that they had claim on. To
resolve this conflict and show their good intentions, Malaysia worked with the
United Nations and the Cobbold Commission to get a general vote from the
people of the said provinces are willing to join Malaysia. The response was
overwhelmingly positive, and nothing stood in the way of Malaysias declaration.

On September 16, 1963, the Federation of Malaysia was announced. This

day is noted as Malaysia Day and is considered a public holiday only in East
Malaysia. The countrys Independence day remains fixed on August 31.

Hari Merdeka Celebrations

 In 2015, Malaysia will celebrate its 58th Hari Merdeka. Since 1970, each
year is given a specific theme, often with a customized logo and song. The
theme usually reflects the patriotic spirit of the Malaysians.

The Merdeka Parade

On August 31, crowds gather for the Hari Merdeka Parade. This event is
usually held at Merdeka Square, but has been held in other locations in order to
bring the celebrations to other parts of Malaysia. In the past few years, the
parade has been held in Putrajaya, Malaysias administrative government center.

Esteemed guests like the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, his consort, ministers,
government and military officials occupy the prime spot for viewing the parade.
While ceremonies by the military, such as the Flypast and the March past are
integral parts of the parade, what captures the attention of the people are the
floats. Each parade has various floats that are often sponsored by various
businesses and corporations. These floats have elaborate designs and unique
features, and some are big enough for several people to stand on.

Citizens line up the streets to observe the parade, and it is clearly a very
enjoyable occasion. Many roads are closed and traffic is routed to alternative
streets so that citizens will be able to watch the parade and not be
inconvenienced.

While August 31 remains the official date of the public holiday,

celebrations for Hari Merdeka start nearly a month earlier and is tagged as
Merdeka Month. Various events, programs and activities relating to Malaysias
independence are held throughout August.

Hari Merdeka is an important holiday for Malaysia, as it shows the

countrys strength and unity.