National Day 2006
31st August 2006 marked the 49th year of this country's independence from British colonialism and the day the joyful, triumphant shouts of “Merdeka, Merdeka, Merdeka!” resonated throughout the nation as Malaya's first Prime Minister, the late Tunku Abdul Rahman stood on a podium at Merdeka Square doing the same.
This year, the official National Day celebration was hosted in Kuching, State of Sarawak. The theme for this year is "National Mission Generates Vision". Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak, Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, the Yang DiPertuan Agong, federal and state ministers and dignitaries and thousands of people from all walks of life were there to watch the grand cultural performances and parade held at Merdeka Stadium. The national anthem "NegaraKu" was sung, followed by the popular "Jalur Gemilang" song. The large crowd proudly waving the national flags, Jalur Gemilang and Sarawak State flag, and some were seen wearing costumes tailored from these flags.
This year, the official National Day celebration was hosted in Kuching, State of Sarawak. The theme for this year is "National Mission Generates Vision". Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, his deputy Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak, Chief Minister Pehin Sri Abdul Taib Mahmud, the Yang DiPertuan Agong, federal and state ministers and dignitaries and thousands of people from all walks of life were there to watch the grand cultural performances and parade held at Merdeka Stadium. The national anthem "NegaraKu" was sung, followed by the popular "Jalur Gemilang" song. The large crowd proudly waving the national flags, Jalur Gemilang and Sarawak State flag, and some were seen wearing costumes tailored from these flags.
The company I work for, also took part in the Merdeka Parade and our first batch of participants left for Kuching on 24th August 2006. We were there early so that we could continue with our marching rehearsal. The weather was not at all pleasant, especially with the hazy condition, but nonetheless we had an enjoyable day under heaven’s blue sky!
On the national day itself, it was even more fun. We got ourselves all dressed up by 0400 hrs in the morning! Had a “speedy-breakfast” from 0430hrs to 0500 hrs. Our transport left the Holiday Inn’s Hotel at 0510 hrs and by 0520 hrs we were already at the Merdeka Stadium. As the day break, one could see the vicinity surrounding Merdeka Palace hued with beautiful colors from the spectators and contingents’ attires, the float decorations, the beautiful floral decorations lining the podium at Merdeka Square and many more.
After the parade, we were treated to a lunch with our management’s leaders. As an appreciation for our fine contribution towards the success of the Merdeka Parade, we were awarded a certificate of appreciation “Hari Kemerdekaan 2006 – Misi Nasional Penjana Wawasan”, another one night stay in Kuching and an extra daily allowances!
On the national day itself, it was even more fun. We got ourselves all dressed up by 0400 hrs in the morning! Had a “speedy-breakfast” from 0430hrs to 0500 hrs. Our transport left the Holiday Inn’s Hotel at 0510 hrs and by 0520 hrs we were already at the Merdeka Stadium. As the day break, one could see the vicinity surrounding Merdeka Palace hued with beautiful colors from the spectators and contingents’ attires, the float decorations, the beautiful floral decorations lining the podium at Merdeka Square and many more.
After the parade, we were treated to a lunch with our management’s leaders. As an appreciation for our fine contribution towards the success of the Merdeka Parade, we were awarded a certificate of appreciation “Hari Kemerdekaan 2006 – Misi Nasional Penjana Wawasan”, another one night stay in Kuching and an extra daily allowances!
Having been away for six days, I missed my family alot, especially my two grandchildren. So I did not stay for that extra day. As for the extra allowance, that I still am entitled to!
Well, I will post some pictures taken during the Merdeka Day soon.
Well, I will post some pictures taken during the Merdeka Day soon.
Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!
God Bless Malaysia!
~ It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness. ~ Charles H. Spurgeon.
God Bless Malaysia!
~ It is not how much we have, but how much we enjoy, that makes happiness. ~ Charles H. Spurgeon.
Labels: Malaysia's National Day
