Thousands usher in 2019 in Putrajaya with spectacular lights and colours display

PUTRAJAYA: Tens of thousands of Malaysians thronged the main boulevard of Putrajaya to usher in the new year.

People of all creed, colour and ages came to Putrajaya in high spirits, with many sat on bean bags on the grass outside the Putrajaya Corporation (PPj) building. 

Celebrating the momentous occasion with the hordes of people was none other than Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and wife, Tun Dr Siti Hasmah Ali. 

The federal administrative capital was deliberately darkened akin to a “blackout” so the spectacular Light and Motion Putrajaya 2018 (Lampu 2018) festival could be experienced to full effect. 

The crowd were treated to a fantastic display of lights and colours, which was projected against the Palace of Justice building along Persiaran Perdana. 

Everyone counted down the seconds towards 12.00am, before a stellar fireworks show filled the skies of Putrajaya. 

After 10 minutes of fireworks display, the crowd sang a roaring rendition of “Negaraku”.

Dr Mahathir, in his speech before the countdown, urged Malaysians to work hard in 2019, as the country aims to become a developed nation in 2025.

“The new year will bring with us a lot of good. We are grateful that we live in a peaceful country like Malaysia. 

“Let's share this good fortune, and together we move forward and develop our beloved country,” said Dr Mahathir, to rousing applause from the audience. 

Other VIPs present were Federal Territories Minister Khalid Samad and PPj president Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim.