Supporting the service: Nurhan, with his parents, saluting during the parade at the Esplanade in George Town, Penang. —ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Dressed in an army uniform complete with black boots and a green beret, five-year-old Muhammad Nurhan Rizqi Muhammad Nur Syafiq stood out among thousands of people who had gathered to watch the state-level National Day parade at the Esplanade in Jalan Padang Kota Lama.
The eager pre-schooler and his parents Muhammad Nur Syafiq Mohd Nasir, 30, and Nur Hafizatul Akma Razali, 30, were at the Esplanade since 5.30am yesterday.
“We wanted to be here early so that Nurhan can get the best spot to see his favourite contingent which is the army marching past,” said Muhammad Nur Syafiq, who is a soldier based at the Sungai Ara camp.
He said his only child was eager to follow his footsteps and had asked to wear the army attire during the parade.
“I’m glad that my wife and I agreed to do what my son wanted.
“He was smiling non-stop and excited when the army contingent marched past the main stage,” he added.
Muhammad Nur Syafiq said his boy was ecstatic when two units of Gempita (Thunder) armoured vehicles rolled up close during the parade.
