PUTRAJAYA - Despite the significant turnout at the National Day 2023 celebration, the visitors remained determined and enthusiastic to stay until the very end to mark the historic day.
People of various ethnicities and ages gathered happily, unperturbed by the crowd while some were so excited that they brought their entire family from outside Putrajaya, just to be at Dataran Putrajaya, to witness and take part in the celebration of the nation's 66th independence day anniversary.
Anita Mary, 35, had never been to a National Day celebration before. Her first time this year was really enjoyable, thanks to the amazing air show that fascinated thousands of visitors and filled her with joy.
"Since it's a school holiday and I have no plans to return to my hometown in Taiping, I took the opportunity to come here instead," said the English teacher, who used the free shuttle bus from Putrajaya Sentral to get to Dataran Putrajaya.
"As early as 1 am, a crowd began to gather at Dataran Putrajaya, and a few were even prepared to "camp out" and sleep on building sidewalks to celebrate National Day 2023 together.
May Cham, who is in her 40s said she was elated with the performances and parades displayed during today's celebration.
"I enjoyed watching the security contingents' parade; they look smart, and the showcased assets are captivating," said the mother of two, who was from Puchong, Selangor along with seven other family members.
For next year's celebration, Mary suggested that the organisers consider providing television screens in more locations as that would give the opportunity for visitors who can't sit in the front rows to also enjoy watching the performances and parades together.
Meanwhile, Zawawi Junuh, 35, and his wife from Melaka agreed that the air show performances were the most fascinating.
"I've only seen the National Day Celebration on television since I was young, but being here in person this year, the feeling is indescribable. I'm really happy and might come back next year," added the factory worker.
Various reactions could be seen from the people during the uniformed troop parade, especially when the firetruck vehicles arrived, there was a thunderous applause and cheers from the crowd.
Some of the visitors took the chance to shout "abang sado" (muscular dude) and in response, the firefighters on the vehicle playfully tossed plastic rose flowers randomly towards the crowd.
In order to show their patriotism, some spectators dressed in outfits reflecting the colours of the Jalur Gemilang, Merdeka bandanas with the words Malaysiaku and Anak Malaysia, and some even painted their faces with stripes of Jalur Gemilang.
In several corners, small-scale traders were seen taking the opportunity to earn extra income by selling snacks like burgers, bread, and drinks. - BERNAMA