Kuala lumpur: National Day Eve celebrations were held in high patriotic spirit across the country tonight, with key locations packed with crowds eager to count down to midnight.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, over 100,000 visitors gathered at Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur to enjoy the 'Kita Bagi Jadi @ Ambang Merdeka 2026' concert and participate in the countdown to the 69th National Day. A survey by Bernama revealed that people of all ages filled the historic square as early as 8 pm, waving the Jalur Gemilang against the illuminated backdrop of the iconic Sultan Abdul Samad Building. The 90-minute concert featured popular local artistes such as Aina Abdul, Aman RA, and Nadia Aqilah, among others, backed by around 350 performers showcasing Malaysia's history and cultural heritage.
In Putrajaya, the Alaf Baru Monument parking lot was the site of vibrant celebrations with Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah in attendance. The event, held in conjunction with RIUH Merdeka, featured a midnight countdown and fireworks display along with performances by artistes like Ernie Zakri and Anuar Zain, followed by screenings of films starting from 2 am.
Selangor's state-level celebrations at Stadium Kajang attracted over 20,000 visitors who enjoyed a skydiving display by the elite VAT 69 Commando unit and a parade of contingents and decorated vehicles. Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari led the crowd in shouts of 'Merdeka' at midnight, accompanied by fireworks and a finale concert.
In Melaka, Dataran 1Malaysia in Klebang hosted over 10,000 visitors for cultural performances and concerts by renowned artistes including Datuk Amy Search. The midnight festivities were attended by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh and other dignitaries.
Perak's Ambang Merdeka X Festival BSAS 2026 saw more than 20,000 people gather at Bulatan Sultan Azlan Shah in Ipoh for activities like a thrift market, food stalls, and a karaoke contest, capped by a midnight fireworks display.
In Perlis, the Tuanku Syed Putra Sports Complex in Kangar was the venue for the state-level 69th National Day celebration, graced by the Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail, who emphasized the importance of maintaining the nation's hard-won independence with unity and responsibility.
Kedah's Dataran Star Walk in Alor Setar drew over 30,000 visitors, with Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor urging attendees to appreciate and safeguard the nation's independence during his address.
In Kelantan, 69 contingents participated in a parade at Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium in Kota Bharu, while in Terengganu, more than 5,000 people gathered at Dataran Muara Utara for a celebration featuring fireworks and performances, including a Merdeka dialogue forum.