KUALA LUMPUR: As the nation celebrated its 69th National Day, 12 newborns, including a pair of twin girls, began their life stories at Hospital Tunku Azizah (HTA) here.
All 12 'Merdeka babies' were delivered between midnight and noon, comprising six baby boys and six baby girls.
HTA director Dr Shamsul Anuar Kamarudin said a birth on National Day is not only a special date, but it also carries a deeper meaning as a symbol of life, hope and the nation's future.
"Every birth is not just a number. It represents a family, a hope and a trust for the future," he said in his speech at the HTA 2026 Merdeka Baby celebration.
For Nor Asyikin Mat Zain, 29, the birth of her second child on National Day made the occasion even more meaningful, especially since both her children were born on dates of great significance.
She said her firstborn, now four years old, was born on Jan 1, while her second child, a baby boy weighing 3.13kg, arrived naturally at 5.45am on Monday (Aug 31).
"Honestly, I'm so proud. My first was born on New Year's Day and now her little brother arrives on National Day," she told Bernama.
Meanwhile, Siti Zulaikha Mohd Jasni, 33, became the first mother to deliver a Merdeka baby at HTA this year, when her baby boy, weighing 2.78kg, was born via caesarean section at 12.05am.
Although he arrived earlier than his expected due date of Sept 8, she said the birth has made Aug 31 an even more meaningful date for her family.
For Rajeah Amud, 32, the arrival of her first child on National Day was nothing short of a blessing. Her baby girl was delivered naturally at 7.55am, despite being due on Sept 8. – Bernama
