Melaka: More than 2,000 participants are expected to join the Melaka Kereta Api Sarong programme on September 16, featuring a two-kilometre procession in traditional attire representing various ethnic communities in conjunction with Malaysia Day. Melaka Tourism Promotion Division general manager Nasrul Ahmad announced that participants would gather at the Melaka Sultanate Palace Museum from 7 am, with the procession scheduled to start between 8 and 8.30 am and head towards the Taming Sari Tower.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the programme will showcase cultural performances involving different ethnic communities in Melaka, including the Malays, Baba and Nyonya, Chitty, and Portuguese. Nasrul emphasized the unique aspect of the event this year, where participants will march in traditional attire representing their respective communities to foster patriotism during the Malaysia Day celebration.

Nasrul mentioned that participants are not required to wear full traditional attire, as the main theme is to wear a sarong, whether a kain pelikat, batik sarong, or other suitable attire. He highlighted that the programme, which originated in the Klang Valley, is gaining attention nationwide, especially among young people interested in expressing their creativity through traditional attire.

The Kereta Api Sarong phenomenon is expanding beyond Kuala Lumpur, reaching other states, including Melaka, and having a positive impact on the Malaysia Day celebration. Nasrul also noted that various activities and cultural performances will take place at several locations along the route, including in front of the People's Museum and the Stadthuys area.