Merdeka in every corner

Across the country, the colours, traditions and generosity of Malaysians come alive as the nation counts down to National Day.

1. A worker putting up the Jalur Gemilang on federal buildings in Putrajaya ahead of Merdeka Day, as the nation prepares to mark another year of independence. — Bernama

2. Barber M. Selvaraj, 39, giving free haircuts to customers at his shop on Persiaran Bijih Timah in Ipoh, Perak, in conjunction with National Month celebrations. For selvaraj, celebrating independence goes beyond waving the Jalur Gemilang or playing patriotic songs; it is a chance to count life’s blessings and give back to the community by sharing what he has with others. — Bernama

3. Wau maker Mohd Norazizi Mustapha, 45, from Kota Bharu, Kelantan, putting the finishing touches to a wau bulan and a wau kucing ahead of the 2026 Wau Mega Layangan Merdeka competition at Cherang Laut Beach, Kg Senok, Bachok, on aug 30 and 31. He said the kites measure 3.3m to 3.6m and weigh about 3kg each. — Bernama

4. Foreign tourists strolling through Dataran Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur, with buildings adorned with the Jalur Gemilang providing a festive backdrop ahead of the National Day celebrations. — Bernama