Johor Information Department staff waving the Jalur Gemilang at the convoy event in Iskandar Puteri. — Photos: THOMAS YONG/The Star and courtesy photos
JOHOR will celebrate Malaysia’s 68th National Day in style, with Batu Pahat hosting state-level festivities on Aug 31 showcasing unity, patriotism and innovation.
State education and information committee chairman Aznan Tamin said the celebration themed “Malaysia Madani, Rakyat Disantuni”, reflected the government’s commitment to people-centric governance.
He said the phrase embodied the spirit of balanced development by blending economic growth with social justice, spiritual values, and community well-being.
“Rakyat disantuni highlights our pledge to ensure the people’s welfare remains a priority,” he told StarMetro.
To embody the theme, Aznan said the state government introduced grassroots initiatives such as “Jelajah Orang Johor” (JOJ) and “Ziarah Kasih” to strengthen ties between leaders and the people.
The celebration this year, he said, would feature a major highlight – military assets from the newly established Kem Majidee in Batu Pahat.
“This is a source of pride for Johoreans and is one of the main attractions,” he added.
Aznan (second from right) helping a motorcyclist fuel up during the ‘Jelajah Orang Johor’ tour in Tanjung Surat constituency, Kota Tinggi.
There is also a line-up of engaging activities such as “Program Yok Mangan”, 3.18km Merdeka Fun Run, and Viral Food Festival, which Aznan said injected a fresher, more inclusive and community-driven feel to the celebration.
“Beyond official ceremonies, the rakyat will be able to enjoy festive, fun and unifying experiences.
“Johor government also placed emphasis on inclusivity, ensuring that the celebration reached every district, including rural areas and islands.”
He said Johor set the momentum for National Day by hosting the launch of National Month and Fly the Jalur Gemilang campaign at Dataran Tanjung Emas in Muar on July 27.
On Aug 15, each district in Johor launched its local-level celebration.
“These parallel launches mean that the Merdeka spirit is not confined to Batu Pahat or Johor Baru, but spread across all corners of the state,” said Aznan.
Among the standout programmes was JOJ covering selected state constituencies, including Tanjung Surat on Aug 23 and 24, he said.
“At JOJ, state leaders met people face-to-face in smaller towns and villages.”
He said another programme to instil patriotism was the “Kembara Merdeka Jalur Gemilang” convoy – from July 28 to 30 – which made stops in Muar, Batu Pahat, Kluang and Tangkak.
He added that the convoy was welcomed by large crowds waving flags and cheering.
Meanwhile, various communities also took the opportunity to hold their own programmes.
One such was a boat convoy by fishermen from Kampung Sungai Melayu in Johor Baru, supported by Johor Information Department. (See sidebar)
The youth factor
Youth engagement remains a key feature of the celebrations, with the state’s Youth and Sports Department organising “Konvoi Jalur Gemilang Jelajah Johor 2025”.
Aznan said young people were the main participants in ensuring the next generation played an active role in driving the National Day spirit.
“These efforts prove that Merdeka is not only celebrated in cities, but also by every segment of society, including rural communities.”
Schools, he said, also played a vital role in instilling patriotism among the younger generation during National Month.
“In partnership with Johor Education Department, schools are holding activities such as flag-raising, patriotic competitions, class decorations, poem recitations and creative projects.
“Selected schools will also participate in state and district-level parades, giving students a chance to showcase their talents.
“This way, love for the nation is nurtured from a young age.”
Aznan said Johor’s unique strength was in its cultural and ethnic diversity, and this would be on full display at the state-level celebration in Dataran Penggaram, starting 7am.
“The National Day parade and cultural performances will feature participants from all backgrounds in a showcase of harmony in Johor.”
Additionally, the Tanjung Surat assemblyman recognised media organisations for their role in amplifying the celebration’s message.
“The state government’s official media channels, alongside print, broadcast and digital outlets, are vital for spreading accurate and inspiring messages on patriotism,” he said.
He also said that the state was working closely with the police, Fire and Rescue Department, the Civil Defence Force, health authorities and local councils to ensure a safe celebration for all.
“Preparations include traffic management, security deployment, medical teams on standby, and logistical arrangements.
“All these measures are in place to ensure the public can celebrate in a safe environment,” he said, adding that this year’s celebration would also highlight sustainability and technology.
Aznan said that based on Johor’s emphasis on sustainability, celebrations would focus on using recycled materials for decorations besides planting trees and hosting green carnivals.
Technological innovations including digital live streaming, online competitions, AR/VR interactive history showcases, and even a dedicated event application have also been factored in.
“Artificial intelligence (AI) and big data are being applied to manage traffic, enhance security and monitor crowds,” he said.
Exhorting Johor youths to safeguard racial harmony, master technology and sustainability, and steer clear of negative influences, he said: “Youths must understand that National Day is not just about waving the flag, but embodying discipline, knowledge and patriotism.
“With strong identity and resilience, Johor youths can raise the state and nation’s profile to the world stage.”
Aznan also called for unity among the state’s multiracial and multireligious people.
“As we mark the 68th National Day, I urge Johoreans to strengthen unity and appreciate the sacrifices of past generations,” he said.
“Let us build a prosperous, inclusive and competitive Johor while protecting our young from harmful behaviours, including bullying in schools.
“Let’s celebrate Merdeka with pride, unity and confidence for the future,” said Aznan.
