By: Suhadatul Fatonah Jusip@Jusop 

Editor: Suziana Che Wil 

Translated by: Suhadatul Fatonah Jusip @ Yusop

SERDANG, 30 August – 66th Merdeka Eve celebration was held to celebrate Malaysia’s 66th Independence Day on the eve of it at UPM. The program which is held at Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Arts & Cultural Centre Big Hall is celebrated with enthusiasm by everyone.

The program starts around 9 PM with performances from Band Putra and Senada Putra finalists while waiting for the arrival of Members of the University Management Committee and Dato’ Prof. Dr. Mohd. Roslan Sulaiman, the Vice Chancellor of UPM. The program is then continued with opening performances of the song Cintai Malaysia from Koir Gabungan PTJ Semarak Merdeka. There is also a prize-giving ceremony for the UPM 2023 Semarak Merdeka competition and Jalur Gemilang parade by the UPM Security Division.

At 11.59 PM, the countdown before midnight starts. As soon as the countdown ends, Prof. Dr. Mohd. Roslan Sulaiman shouts “Merdeka!” 7 times which has marked the 66th anniversary of Malaysia’s independence.

The program is continued with the flag raising ceremony and the singing of the Negaraku song as well as the recitation of prayers for the well-being of Malaysia and the recitation of the Rukun Negara pledge led by YDP MPP.

The theme of National Day and Malaysia Day chosen this year is Malaysia Madani: Determination of Unity Fulfils Hope as announced by the Minister of Communications and Digital, YB Fahmi Fadzil last May. The spirit of patriotism and unity shown by the UPM community at this program is a good reflection of this year's theme of independence. Hopefully this spirit will not fade even though our country is approaching 70 years of independence.

Date of Input: 04/09/2023 | Updated: 27/09/2023 | suziana.wil