Unity Merdeka Festival Set To Draw Over One Million Visitors

KUALA LUMPUR, July 1 (Bernama) -- More than one million visitors are expected at Dataran Merdeka for the inaugural Unity Merdeka community festival, which will be held over four days from July 17 to 20.

Held under the theme "United in Diversity, Sustaining Prosperity", the festival is organised by the Kuala Lumpur Police in collaboration with 16 ministries to foster unity among Malaysia's multi-ethnic communities.

Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Fadil Marsus said the event will feature activities focusing on community welfare, unity, arts and culture, education, religion, family and entertainment, and is open to people of all ages.

"The event aims to strengthen community ties by promoting unity among Malaysia's diverse ethnic groups, races and cultures through interactive activities, performances by local artistes, and the participation of government agencies and private organisations," he said at the festival's pre-launch ceremony here today.

Among the main attractions are exhibitions and interactive booths by various government agencies, including the police (PDRM), the Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) and the Health Ministry (MOH).

Participating organisations also include Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions, Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNITAR), Pos Malaysia, the National Registration Department (JPN) and the National Anti-Drugs Agency (AADK), he said.

Other highlights include the Police Cadet Marching Competition, the Community Care corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, a meet-and-greet session with animation characters, children's activities, e-sports competitions, pickleball, Muay Thai matches, a five-kilometre Fun Run and a Fun Bike Ride.

The event will also feature the 'KL Berselawat' programme and a live screening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on a giant screen.

Meanwhile, Fadil advised motorists to plan their journeys and cooperate with the authorities to help ensure smooth traffic flow around the capital throughout the four-day event.

Members of the public seeking further information may contact the Kuala Lumpur Police Hotline at 03-2115 9999, the Tun H.S. Lee Traffic Police Station at 03-2071 9999, or their nearest police station.

-- BERNAMA