RAIN did not dampen the spirit of patriotism as thousands of people from all walks of life turned up to witness the Penang state-level National Day parade to commemorate Malaysia’s 67th year of independence today.
The public began gathering at the Padang Kota Lama, the state-level National Day parade venue this year, as early as 7.30am, to grab the perfect spot for the event.
This year’s National Day theme is ‘Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka’.
The state-level National Day parade started around 8.30am after the Penang Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Ahmad Fuzi Abdul Razak and his consort Toh Puan Khadijah Mohd Noor arrived.
They were received by State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang and his wife Datin Teoh Hooi Tuang, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, former Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng, Deputy Chief Minister I Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo and State Secretary Datuk Seri Rosli Isa.
At the main pavilion were members of the State Executive Council, state assemblymen, Members of Parliament, and other distinguished guests.
The event began with the singing of the national anthem, Negaraku, and the Penang state anthem, Untuk Negeri Kita, followed by an inspection of the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM) troops by Tun Ahmad Fuzi himself.
After the recital of the Rukun Negara pledge and the singing of several patriotic songs, various contingents, including the ATM, Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), government agencies, and uniformed school teams, marched into the main area while saluting the state leaders.
Spectators were in awe witnessing the colourful parade featuring floats with themed decorations and military assets, including vehicles. Various musical performances further revitalised the spirit of independence.
The parade also included a unique silent march by the Royal Malaysian Navy, a combat dance performance by the police and the pass-by of the Gempita Shield, an 8×8 amphibious multi-role armoured vehicle.
In total,126 contingents participated, with 106 groups comprising 7,190 participants on foot, representing state agencies, uniformed units, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and the private sector.
The vehicles contingent featured 20 motorcades, involving 1,078 participants in 714 vehicles.
Apart from that, 20 booths from various enforcement agencies were set up to attract visitors.
Chow, in his special message for the National Day celebration this year, urged all parties to focus on unity in honour of National Day.
He stressed that without unity, the people cannot achieve stability, prosperity and continuous progress.
Chow added that the state government also will continue to organise various community programmes to foster a spirit of unity and build a just and prosperous society among Penangites.
This vision is encapsulated in the Penang2030 Vision, which aims to transform Penang into “A Family-Focused Green and Smart State that Inspires the Nation.”
With approximately three years remaining in his tenure as Chief Minister, Chow is determined to continue shaping the state’s excellence as a ‘Caring State’ while also achieving success in economic and social development.
“Unity and integration among people of various religious, racial, and cultural backgrounds are key to harmony and prosperity in Penang.
“May the spirit of ‘Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka’ inspire us to work collectively towards a brighter, more prosperous future for all,” Chow said.
The theme focuses on six principles – sustainability, prosperity, innovation, respect, trust, and care – aiming to maintain social unity, improve the standard of living for the people, enhance the business environment, and lead Malaysia towards a prosperous society.
As Penang continues to drive towards its Penang2030 Vision, the event served as a powerful reminder of the shared values and aspirations that will guide the state on its path to excellence, harmony, and sustainability.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Adleena Rahayu Ahmad Radzi