Hari Merdeka, Malaysia's Independence Day, is celebrated every year on August 31. It's definitely a colorful, festive time to be in Kuala Lumpur or traveling anywhere in Malaysia! However, this year will be a little bit different from the history where the Merdeka Parade would broadcast on TV in the new normal.
‘Malaysia Prihatin’ (Malaysia Cares) unveiled as the theme for this year’s National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations. The theme was chosen to emphasize the caring, determination and patience as we fight with the global pandemic. It also carried the meaning that every Malaysian is together with the government in combating the pandemic.
4 main activities will be carried out to mark the occasion:
- Celebrations for the 50th anniversary of the Rukun Negara in Putrajaya from 9 July to 16 September
- Launched the National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang in Putrajaya on 28 July
- National Day in Kuala Lumpur on 31 August
- Malaysia Day in Sibu, Sarawak on 16 September
Commenting on the National Day celebrations, Saifuddin said there would be no parade this time, but Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) would broadcast a programme on Aug 31 to mark the occasion. — Bernama
Don't be disappointed as we are going to suggest a few activities for the occasions:
1. Ultron X JomRun Merdeka Virtual Marathon
Everyone should stop from mass gathering but it shouldn’t be an excuse to stop you from running! ltron X JomRun Merdeka Virtual Marathon is a virtual running event whereby you'll get to rack up metres and steps from your comfort zone in your own timeframe. All you need to do is register for the desired distance ranging from 5km to 41km and download any pedometer app to track your steps.
Once you’ve completed, simply submit photos to JomRun’s app store to prove that you have done so. You’ll then get a finisher medal and dry-fit shirt with Jalur Gemilang printed on it for a special Merdeka 2020 commemorative gift shipped to you.
2. Syok Merdeka Dive-In Cinema
Malaysia's first-ever dive-in "cinema"! There's nothing quite like watching a movie under the stars - or in this case, in Malaysia's first diving pool and largest salt water pool. To make it BETTER & BIGGER, they're celebrating Merdeka with BBQ fest and special countdown on the eve. Tickets are going for RM50 per person. Those who prefer to stay out of the water will have to go for the session on 30th August, as it is only on that date that you can opt to feast on barbecue treats by the poolside instead of having to catch the movie in the “dive-in” cinema.
3. Merdeka Ride
Adventurers and thrill-seekers would love this! In collaboration with Motor Maniac & Volta Roller, Gamuda Cove is introducing the coolest motorcycle event and the ride will start all the way from Rawang to Gamuda Cove Discovery Park. At here, you can enjoy pool, aerobar and lots of local eatery by the pool. On top of that, We’ll ride from Rawang to KL then Gamuda Cove Discovery Park, where pool, Aerobar & whole lots of fun awaits you there. So bring extra cloth!
first 150 riders will be able to redeem FREE RM10 voucher to shop or dine at Freshii, Gamuda Gardens and RM20 to dine at Archive, Gamuda Cove. \
4. Gerakbudaya’s film workshop about Malaysia’s history
Featuring the documentary film ‘Five Tigers’ by local director, Victor Chin, local bookstore and publishing house, Gerakbudaya, is hosting a Facebook live on 26th August 2020 to discuss the topic.
The film follows 3 women who were part of the Malayan Labour Party, and who were known to join in street demonstrations and strikes to fight for Malaysia’s independence during the 1960s in Penang. It’s a fitting activity for film and history buffs to participate in for Merdeka, and a reminder of how far we’ve come since our days under British rule.
