Malaysia Day is celebrated annually on September 16, marking the formation of Malaysia in 1963.
On September 16, 1963, Malaysia was formed by the merger of Malaya, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore. Singapore, however, left the federation in 1965.
Malaysia Day is different from Hari Merdeka (Independence Day), which is celebrated on August 31. While Hari Merdeka celebrates Malaya’s independence from British colonial rule in 1957, Malaysia Day commemorates the creation of the larger federation.
Malaysia Day was declared a public holiday in Malaysia starting in 2010, as part of efforts to foster unity between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
For the people of Sabah and Sarawak, Malaysia Day holds special significance, as it celebrates their inclusion into the Malaysian federation.
Malaysia Day celebrations often emphasize themes of national unity and cultural diversity, showcasing the rich variety of ethnic groups, languages, and traditions that make up the Malaysian population.
Malaysia’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, played a key role in negotiating the formation of Malaysia, visiting the British and local leaders of North Borneo, Sarawak, and Singapore to gain approval for the merger.
While Merdeka Day is often celebrated with parades, Malaysia Day celebrations tend to focus more on reflecting the federation’s historical journey and strengthening ties between East and West Malaysia.
In 1963, Malaysia’s first flag-raising ceremony took place at the Padang Merdeka in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, and it is a key event during Malaysia Day celebrations.
