National Day Merdeka Malaysia Public Holiday 2024
Date | Day | Holiday | State |
---|---|---|---|
Aug 31, 2024 | Sat | Merdeka Day | National |
Sep 1, 2024 | Sun | Merdeka Day Holiday | Kelantan & Terengganu |
Aug 31, 2025 | Sun | Merdeka Day | National |
Sep 1, 2025 | Mon | Merdeka Day Holiday | National except Johor,Kedah, Kelantan &Terengganu |
Aug 31, 2026 | Mon | Merdeka Day | National |
Malaysia National Day, also known as "Hari Merdeka" in Malay, is a significant public holiday in Malaysia celebrated annually on August 31st. It commemorates the country's independence from British colonial rule, which was achieved on August 31, 1957.
Malaysia National Day marks the day when the Federation of Malaya gained independence from British colonial administration. The country was previously known as Malaya and was under British rule for many years.
On August 31, 1957, at the Merdeka Stadium in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman, read out the Proclamation of Independence, officially declaring the country's independence. This event is often remembered for the iconic cry of "Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka!" (which means "Independence" in Malay) that echoed throughout the stadium.
Malaysia National Day celebrates the country's diversity, as Malaysia is known for its multicultural society comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous groups. The nation's motto, "Unity in Diversity" ("Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu" in Malay), reflects this harmonious coexistence of different ethnicities, cultures, and religions.
The national flag of Malaysia, known as the Jalur Gemilang, is prominently displayed on Malaysia National Day. The national anthem, "Negaraku," is sung at official ceremonies and events as a symbol of patriotism.