Putrajaya residents can hardly wait to celebrate

PUTRAJAYA: With only a few days left to the National Day celebration, residents here are excitedly anticipating the performances and shows that will take place.

Civil servant Khairul Nadzrin Khairul Zaman, 33, said he was proud that the federal administrative capital was chosen as the venue, describing it as different from the others and that he could not wait to see Putrajaya filled with visitors for the annual celebration.

“We in Putrajaya don’t feel isolated … in my opinion, this day would be a benchmark or catalyst for us to continue to maintain national unity despite what is happening in the country with the current political situation happening now.

“The celebration of National Day somewhat puts aside political differences, and everyone unites and cooperates,” he said when interviewed by BK at the 2023 National Day Celebration rehearsal at Dataran Putrajaya yesterday.

For Maslinda Abdul Majid, 36, although this is not the first time Putrajaya will host the celebration, it still has a special meaning given that it was previously celebrated on a moderate scale when the Covid-19 pandemic first hit the country.

Maslinda, who had previously participated in the National Day parade herself through the Education Ministry contingent last year, also encouraged the public to attend.

Pensioner Halimatun Abdul Karim, 64, is of the opinion that Putrajaya is a suitable location to hold the National Day celebration because of its vast area.

“It is good to hold the celebration here because visitors can see what Putrajaya has to offer.

“Everyone can come and see how we celebrate our National Day,” she said.

Themed “Malaysia Madani: Tekad Perpaduan, Penuhi Harapan (Malaysia Madani: Determination in Unity, Fulfilling Hope),” the National Day parade will see 10 contingents participating.

Other interesting events include a Malaysia Madani performance featuring famous local artistes and a special drum performance.

Highlights include a precise parachute jumping performance by VAT 69 commandos from the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM); a cosplay parade and various mascots of famous characters; a parade of 30 vintage cars carrying 30 people from various races in Malaysia; and a parade of 30 horses from the PDRM Cavalry Unit.

Putrajaya was also the venue of National Day celebrations in 2003, 2005, 2018 and 2019.