Kuala lumpur: The 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) celebrations will feature 16 side programmes aimed at fostering patriotism and strengthening unity among Malaysians.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Communications Ministry's Management Services Division secretary Harun Ali said the programmes include Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang (KMJG), the National Month Decoration Competition, Ekspresi Merdeka, Kita MADANI Carnival, as well as various community and cultural activities.

He mentioned that the programmes reflected the Government's commitment to ensuring that the HKHM 2026 celebrations could be enjoyed and participated in by all segments of society. 'These programmes reflect the Government's commitment to ensuring that the HKHM celebrations are enlivened through various activities, while instilling the spirit of patriotism and love for the country in various forms,' Harun stated during his appearance on Bernama Radio's Fokus 30 programme.

This year's HKHM celebrations will not be focused solely in Putrajaya, as the highlight of the Merdeka Eve Celebration will instead be held at Stadium Merdeka. Harun added that a special Merdeka Address by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would be featured at the historic Stadium Merdeka to inspire the spirit of struggle and unite Malaysians' resolve as midnight approaches.

A new attraction introduced this year is 'Melukis Senja', which will include an aerial display by Aero 3, featuring aerobatic manoeuvres that produce smoke trails and fireworks over the skies of Putrajaya. The various activities are intended to encourage Malaysians from all walks of life to participate in and appreciate the HKHM celebrations, highlighting that the 'price' of the independence enjoyed today was neither cheap nor easily achieved.

Harun urged all Malaysians to demonstrate their love for the country by flying the Jalur Gemilang as a manifestation of pride and gratitude for being part of the Malaysian community. Meanwhile, he also officiated the handing-over ceremony of Jalur Gemilang flags to staff of the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) to further enliven the National Month celebrations.