Independence is a man’s birthright. The joy of being independent from subjugation is the greatest happiness known to man. The independence day of a country definitely calls for celebration. The Merdeka Day (independence day) of Malaysia is likewise celebrated all over this beautiful Asian country.
Having earned independence from the British on 31st August, 1957, the Merdeka Day is commemorated as the National Day. With a holiday declared all over Malaysia, the streets everywhere turn into carnival venues with foot tapping music accompanied by joyous dances. The streets get overcrowded with people and car horns hoot aloud commemorating this red-letter day in the history of Malaysia.
The Jalur Gemilang (Malaysia’s National Flag) is hoisted at night. The 14 horizontal red and white stripes in this flag represent 13 states with their independent federal governments. This flag hoisting ceremony is cheered aloud by the Malays. People all over Malaysia roar ‘Merdeka’. The night sky becomes illuminated with constant bursting and the deafening sound of fire crackers.
A parade is organized on this day, which is honored by the presence of the king, the queen, the prime minister of Malaysia as well as other very important dignitaries. Sometimes important foreign political personalities also attend the Merdeka Day parade.
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