KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 31 (NNN-BERNAMA) – Malaysia marked the 63rd anniversary of its independence today, with a scaled back celebration, due to the restrictive measures to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.
Malaysia’s Yang DiPertuan Agong (King) Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah, officiated the celebration at the administration centre of Putrajaya, being joined by Prime Minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, and members of his cabinet.
In his royal address, Sultan Abdullah urged Malaysians to appreciate and to practise the Rukun Negara, Malaysia’s declaration of national philosophy, which should guide all citizens of the multiracial country.
He also called on the people to appreciate and safeguard the country’s independence and peace.
For the first time in its history, no assemblies and parades by uniformed bodies, government agencies and private sectors were held, due to COVID-19 restrictions. Instead, small official celebrating events were held in several venues in Putrajaya and the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, which were broadcast live to Malaysians.
In his address to the nation on Sunday, Prime Minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, called for his compatriots to care for each other in the face of challenges, including those caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, ahead of the country’s national day to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of independence.
In the televised address, Muhyiddin urged Malaysians to care for the country, work towards maintaining peace and harmony Malaysia presently enjoys and push the country forward to be more successful in various fields.
On Aug 31, 1957, the then Federation of Malaya gained independence from British rule.– NNN-BERNAMA
