KOTA KINABALU: A total of 30,000 visitors are expected at the national-level 2024 Malaysia Day celebration at Padang Merdeka here, says Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew.
Liew, who is also co-chairman of the 2024 Malaysia Day celebration main committee, said the celebration would start at 5pm on Monday with various performances.
“There will also be special appearances by superhero mascots after the fireworks display and the departure of the guests of honour,” she told a press conference here yesterday.
She said among the events scheduled to take place during the celebration was the signing of the Special Book on Malaysia Day celebration by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg and Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor.
In conjunction with the celebration, Liew said a Yasin recital and doa selamat, organised by the Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS), was held at the Nurul Hikmah Mosque in Bukit Padang here, Bernama reported.
Malaysians of other religious beliefs were also encouraged to pray together for the country’s wellbeing and security, Liew added.
Other activities lined up for the celebration are exhibitions, sales bazaars, patriotic song-singing competitions, a treasure hunt at the State Archives and Art Gallery, a night at the archives, esports competitions, national quizzes and drawing competitions with the theme “Malaysia Madani, Jiwa Merdeka”.
Liew said the “wow factor” to be highlighted during the celebration involved a unique cultural performance, a hologram show, a drone show, a light and sound show, as well as creative elements that reflect the theme of “Malaysia Madani: Jiwa Merdeka”.
