1969 Jaguar Mark 2 drawing glances in Subang Jaya in the Jiwa Merdeka convoy of classic cars and roaring motorcycles. — Courtesy photo
Folk also show love for sporting heroes at city council’s National Day celebration
A convoy of 39 classic cars and 25 high-powered motorcycles rolling through Subang Jaya, Selangor, created plenty of excitement for residents.
The “Jiwa Merdeka” convoy, which made its way from MBSJ Arena in USJ5 to Da Men Mall in USJ1, was one of the highlights of the city’s National Day celebration.
Among the automotive treasures on display were a 1969 Jaguar Mark 2, Daimler, 1954 MG TF, Pontiac and a variety of models from well-known marques.
The event was organised by Subang Jaya City Council (MBSJ) in collaboration with Zone 4 Residents Representative Council, National Athletes Welfare Foundation (Yakeb) and Da Men Mall.
MBSJ councillor Kamarul Hisham Yeop Hashim in his speech said some of the cars on display were real gems.
“The convoy passed through a few housing areas in Zone 4, including USJ2 to USJ6, before ending at Da Men Mall,” he said.
More than 30 children from an Orang Asli village in Pulau Indah, Klang, were also invited to be part of the convoy and festivities.
Seven national athletes, including legends Datuk Dollah Salleh, Datuk Zaiton Othman and Datuk Rashid Sidek, were on hand to meet sports fans and sign autographs at the mall.
(From fourth left) Kamarul Hisham, Amirul and Kuala Lumpur Pavilion Sdn Bhd adviser Datuk Abdul Wahab Khalil with former national athletes at the event in Da Men Mall. — KAMARUL ARIFFIN/The Star
Subang Jaya mayor Datuk Amirul Azizan Abd Rahim, in his speech, emphasised the importance of unity in diversity.
“We chose the theme ‘Jiwa Merdeka’ because it reflects the spirit of unity among our diverse community.
“You can see people of different races and religions all coming together as one to celebrate National Day.”
He expressed hope that such events would foster a greater sense of togetherness.
“I hope this programme will instil a spirit of unity among the community, and I look forward to seeing more public and private agencies involved in future Merdeka celebrations,” he said.
Acknowledging the significant role of former athletes in shaping the nation’s sports history, Amirul said, “The main reason we invited these former athletes is simple – they are our legends.
“I want the younger generation to learn about them, to know their stories, because these legends made our country proud.
“It is only fitting that they should be involved with this and future MBSJ Merdeka events.”
The celebration continued with various cultural performances and fun activities, including a traditional costume competition, a 24 seasons drum show and a Sumazau dance.
