Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Malaysia marked the 68th anniversary of its independence on Sunday with a grand National Day parade in Putrajaya, the nation’s administrative capital, as tens of thousands of citizens and visitors gathered to celebrate the country’s journey since 1957.
The celebration, locally known as Hari Merdeka, saw more than 14,000 participants forming 81 contingents representing various sectors of Malaysian society — including civil servants, the armed forces, students, private organizations, and community groups. The event highlighted Malaysia’s diversity and the unity that underpins its national identity.
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King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar presided over the ceremony, while Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, cabinet ministers, governors, and senior officials joined the audience, reflecting the event’s national importance.
The Royal Malaysian Air Force staged a spectacular fly-past with fighter jets, transport aircraft, and helicopters performing aerial maneuvers over Putrajaya Boulevard. On the ground, military parades, cultural troupes, school contingents, and decorated floats showcased the country’s progress in areas such as education, innovation, agriculture, digital technology, and environmental sustainability.
Patriotic songs, traditional dances, and theatrical performances added color to the celebrations, while spectators waved the Jalur Gemilang (national flag) with pride.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, in his National Day message, emphasized unity and inclusivity as the foundation of Malaysia’s strength. He called on citizens to uphold the spirit of Merdeka by working together across races, religions, and regions to ensure peace, stability, and economic progress.
Internationally, leaders from ASEAN, India, China, and other partner nations extended greetings to Malaysia on its National Day, commending the country’s contributions to regional peace, prosperity, and multilateral cooperation.
Ancient Roots of Malaysia
Malaysia’s history traces back to the Malay Peninsula, once a vibrant hub of trade dominated by powerful kingdoms such as Srivijaya and Malacca.
In 1511, the Portuguese captured Malacca, marking the start of colonial control. The British later expanded their influence, eventually colonizing the region.
After World War II, the British introduced the Malayan Union, but Malay leaders strongly opposed it, seeing it as a threat to sovereignty and the role of Malay rulers.
Federation of Malaya
In 1948, the Malayan Union was replaced by the Federation of Malaya Agreement, which preserved the powers of the Malay rulers and granted special rights to Malays.
Independence in 1957
On August 31, 1957, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first prime minister, declared independence at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur with the historic cry of “Merdeka!” shouted seven times.
August 31, 1957, marks the historic day when Malaysia, then Malaya, gained independence from British colonial rule. Sixty-eight years later, the country continues to reflect on its achievements while looking forward to its aspirations of becoming a high-income, innovation-driven economy and a hub of multicultural harmony.
Formation of Malaysia
In 1963, Malaysia was officially formed, comprising the Federation of Malaya, Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak. Two years later, in 1965, Singapore separated from the federation.
Celebrating Hari Merdeka
Today, Malaysians commemorate Independence Day, known as Hari Merdeka, with colorful parades, cultural performances, and patriotic displays. The celebrations honor the nation’s history, heritage, and the unity that defines its people.
Politics and Diplomacy
As Malaysia celebrates its 68th Independence Day in 2025, its politics and diplomacy remain deeply shaped by history and cultural diversity. Over the decades, Malaysia has emerged as a credible middle power, practicing a balanced foreign policy rooted in active neutrality, non-alignment, and equidistant diplomacy. This approach has enabled the nation to foster strong ties with multiple countries while steering clear of major power rivalries.
In the contemporary era, Malaysia has carefully navigated complex geopolitical currents, especially in balancing relations with the United States and China. Guided by pragmatism, it has pursued an inclusive foreign policy, engaging with global powers while strengthening its role in regional organizations such as ASEAN.
Malaysia’s diplomacy emphasizes economic cooperation, regional security, and stability, while safeguarding sovereignty and national interests. At home, the country’s multicultural and multilingual character continues to shape its political outlook, reflecting a long-standing commitment to unity, diversity, and resilience as defining pillars of nationhood.
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