Malaysia Day Celebration: Rehearsals Underway, Stage Preparations 90 Pct Done

BUTTERWORTH, Sept 14 (Bernama) -- Preparations for stage performances at the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration are 90 per cent complete, with just two days to go before the national event at PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena.

National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) director-general Mohd Amran Mohd Haris said this year’s performances are set to be more vibrant, thanks to the strong participation of Penang-based non-governmental organisations, who are playing a key role.

He said the highlight of the evening will be ‘Rumpun MADANI’, a cultural segment that reflects the diverse heritage of communities from Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak.

“This performance will not only highlight elements of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Sabah and Sarawak cultural arts, but also symbolise our struggle for independence and the spirit of unity that shaped Malaysia.

“It reflects the integration of the peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak, representing the harmony and camaraderie of Malaysians,” he told Bernama after a rehearsal session today.

Mohd Amran added that the opening performance, featuring Penang’s identity as the host state, is expected to add vibrancy and further promote national unity.

“I invite all members of the public to attend and witness the Malaysia Day celebration in person,” he said.

A check by Bernama found that preparations for exhibition booths are also in full swing, with various government agencies and organisations finalising their setups.

Highlights include a state government showcase titled Menelusuri Zaman, a Malaysia Day photo exhibition by the Information Department (JAPEN) and Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama).

Visitors can explore the exhibition booths starting at 9 am, with attractions such as traditional clothing and equipment displays, food demonstrations, colouring activities and quizzes.

Themed ‘Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni’, the celebration on Tuesday will feature performances by top local artists, including Ella, Suki Low, Roshini Balachandran, as well as artists from Sabah and Sarawak, Dabra Sia and Rezza Shah.

The event is expected to be attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor and Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.

-- BERNAMA