Visitors laud Penang’s first Malaysia Day celebration as a vibrant and historic event

Visitors laud Penang’s first Malaysia Day celebration as a vibrant and historic event

BUTTERWORTH, Sept 17 — Malaysians from all walks of life were captivated by the splendour of the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena last night.

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BUTTERWORTH, Sept 17 — Malaysians from all walks of life were captivated by the splendour of the Malaysia Day 2025 celebration at the PICCA Convention Centre @ Butterworth Arena last night.

The event, held for the first time in Penang, drew praise from attendees for its festive atmosphere and strong multiracial participation.

Khor Moh Nee, 46, from Permatang Pauh, said she was amazed by the large, diverse crowd and the colourful performances by various communities, including those from Sabah and Sarawak.

“I live nearby, so we planned early to join the Malaysia Day celebration. Since this is the first time it’s held in Penang, it feels truly festive,” she told Bernama after the grand finale.

Lai Yong He, 26, attending such a celebration in Penang for the first time, described the event as a symbol of unity among Malaysians.

“I feel we are truly one, with all races together here. We must continue to strengthen unity and build Malaysia back to its glory days as one of the Asian Tigers in the 1990s,” said the private-sector worker from Butterworth.

Student Mohd Zulfikar Yusri, 14, from SMK Dato’ Onn, said he was excited to witness the historic celebration.

“I’m very happy to be here. It’s a meaningful experience to see unity reflected in people of all races and religions gathering together,” said the Bagan Ajam native.

Private-sector employee T. Munisha Devi, 25, who attended with her mother and younger sister, said she arrived at 5pm and enjoyed visiting several exhibitions, including sampling boiled tapioca and local dishes.

“The organisation was excellent, and the atmosphere was truly festive. We enjoyed both the performances and exhibitions,” she said.

Carrying the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni,” the celebration was officiated by Penang Governor Tun Ramli Ngah Talib, with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof, Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, and Sabah Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Shahelmey Yahya also in attendance. — Bernama

Many among the crowd who attended the highlight of the celebration praised the event, held for the first time in Penang, for its lively atmosphere and wide participation. — Bernama pic

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