Malaysia Independence Day, also known as National Day or ‘Hari Merdeka’ in Malay is observed on August 31 and commemorates the Malayan Declaration of Independence of 31 August 1957. It is defined in Article 160 of the Constitution of Malaysia as the official independence day when it gained its freedom from the British colonial administration. Usually, the celebrations start from the beginning of August with various programs and national competitions. Owing to the celebrations, the month of August is also known as the National Month.

Situated at the geographical intersection of many Southeast Asian nations, Malaysia is a melting pot of several ethnicities originating across the region. The unity of different cultures is highlighted during the annual Merdeka Parade in Kuala Lumpur. This display of the nation’s diverse heritage begins at Merdeka Square and features speeches from national leaders, parades of elaborately decorated floats, and crowds of residents and visitors waving the national flag.

The parade culminates in seven communal exclamations of “Merdeka!” to honor the original declaration of independence. Celebrations extend from the capital across the Malaysian peninsula and throughout its 878 islands.

Selamat Hari Merdeka, Malaysia! Happy Independence Day, Malaysia!