AFTER a two-year interruption, Penangites from all walks of life thronged the Esplanade early this morning to celebrate the 65th National Day in a large-scale physical celebration.
The colourful parade, mounted by the various contingents in theme decorations, took place in style this year.
This state-level celebration was memorable as thousands of people flooded Lebuh Light, Jalan Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah, and Jalan Padang Kota Lama to witness the special occasion.
Despite the sweltering heat, a sea of people were seen proudly waving their Jalur Gemilang during the National Day parade.
Some parents brought along their children to celebrate the annual grand event.
The parade and march-past started with the national and state anthems being played, before the historic shouts of ‘Merdeka’ seven times.
The parade also saw a total of 84 contingents, comprising 4,900 people from the various agencies, taking part in the march-past.
The event was made even livelier thanks to the choir and drum performances from the Penang Youth Development Corporation (PYDC).
A series of patriotic songs were also played throughout the parade.
Apart from that, the Penang State Culture Council (PSCC) mesmerised the crowd with its dance performance.
The armed forces, from the Sixth Battalion Royal Rangers Regiment, also performed the Pancaragam Enam Melayu.
The Honour Guard from the Third Regiment of the Royal Armoured Corps was also assigned to a ceremonial duty along with two Perisai GEMPITA 8X8 armoured vehicles.
The parade, which lasted for about two hours, ended at around 11am.
The event was attended by Penang Governor Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak, his consort Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Nor, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his wife Tan Lean Kee; state executive council members, state assemblymen, and state dignitaries.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad