Labuan: The 2025 National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang (MPBKKJG) launch at Dataran Tanjung Emas here drew 12,000 visitors, showcasing Malaysia’s cultural diversity and fostering unity and patriotism.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, A D Yanto Angkar, 33, from Kota Marudu, Sabah, expressed his enthusiasm about the event’s ability to bring together people from different states, providing an opportunity to learn about unique regional products. He mentioned discovering Terengganu’s keropok lekor losong and batik while running a booth at the Kita MADANI Carnival, held in conjunction with the launch.

Haradzi Harun, 66, from Kuala Terengganu, shared that the event was a platform to explore traditional food and crafts from Sabah, Sarawak, and other states, as well as reconnect with friends from across the country. He recounted meeting a long-lost friend from Melaka at the programme.

Johor-born friends Anis Sofia Salekin and Nor Huda Nasihah Zaimi, both 20, highlighted their experience of wearing ethnic costumes for the first time-a Minang outfit from Negeri Sembilan and a modern cheongsam-as a key moment that enhanced their appreciation of Malaysia’s multicultural heritage.

The launch was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and attended by notable figures including Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Information Department director-general Julina Johan.