PUTRAJAYA, Aug 19 — This year’s National Day parade at Dataran Putrajaya will feature a record 81 contingents, marking a significant increase from 57 last year, the Information Department (Japen) said today.
Japen director-general Julina Johan said the August 31 celebration will see 14,010 participants and 116 animals taking part in the parade, alongside performances by 21 marching bands featuring patriotic and cultural themes.
Speaking at a media briefing on the national celebration today, she said an aerial flypast by national defence assets will return, while seven decorated floats highlighting key national initiatives, including the Asean chairmanship and Visit Malaysia 2026, will be featured.
Agencies contributing to the float segment include the Foreign Ministry, Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac), Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and Inland Revenue Board (LHDN).
Julina said the National Culture and Arts Department will coordinate the entire parade to ensure seamless execution and integration of all segments.
In a first, the National Month festivities will include a 30-hour non-stop programme, Riuh Merdeka 2025, running from noon on August 30 to 6pm on August 31 at the Monumen Alaf Baru parking area in Precinct 2. The event will feature performances and activities celebrating national unity, culture and creativity.
A Merdeka countdown will be held at the same venue at 11.55pm on August 30, while the celebration at Dataran Merdeka will start at 5pm that evening.
Held under the theme “Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni”, this year’s National Day will be celebrated in Putrajaya, with Malaysia Day to follow in Penang on September 16.
