Malaysians Thrilled By Festive Malaysia Day Celebration In Penang

BUTTERWORTH, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- Malaysians from all walks of life were left in awe by the splendour of the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena here tonight.

Many among the crowd who attended the highlight of the celebration praised the event, held for the first time in Penang, for its lively atmosphere and wide participation.

Khor Moh Nee, 46, from Permatang Pauh, said she was surprised to see such a large and multiracial turnout, with vibrant performances by various communities, including those from Sabah and Sarawak.

“I live not far from the convention centre, so we had planned from the start to come to celebrate Malaysia Day. Since this is the first time it is held in Penang, it is truly festive,” she told Bernama after the grand finale event.

Lai Yong He, 26, who attended such an event in Penang for the first time, also shared his joy at experiencing the festivities and described tonight’s celebration as a symbol of unity among the people, regardless of race or religion.

“I feel like we are truly one, all races together here. We must strengthen unity, come together, and make Malaysia strong again, like in the 1990s when we were known as one of the Asian Tigers,” said the private-sector worker from Butterworth.

Mohd Zulfikar Yusri, 14, a student of SMK Dato’ Onn, expressed his excitement at witnessing the historic celebration held for the first time in Penang.

“I am very happy to be here today. It is a valuable experience to see how unity is displayed through the presence of people from various races and religions gathering in one place,” said the Bagan Ajam native.

Another visitor, T. Munisha Devi, 25, who works in the private sector, said she arrived at 5 pm and had time to tour several exhibitions, including sampling boiled tapioca and other dishes provided.

“I came with my mother and younger sister. The organisation was excellent and the event was truly festive. We enjoyed all the performances and exhibitions,” she said.

With the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni,” the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration here was officiated by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib.

Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya.

-- BERNAMA