PUTRAJAYA: It was a National Day celebration to remember for five friends who finally realised their wish to watch the festivities together physically as a group.
The five - Batrisyia Badrun, 26; Dianne Marlon, 35; Najwa Syamsul Bahrin, 26; Umi Aira Kahlirah Abdul Kahar, 15; Syakirah Hamiruddin, 22; and Mohd Saiful Hamiruddin, 27, all arrived as early as 3am to get the best seats to watch the parade.
“Even then, the crowds were already here especially right in front of the barricades as there were those who had already set up camp from the previous night.
“The celebration this time is also extremely crowded compared to our experience during previous years,” said Batrisyia when met here on Monday (Aug 31).
She added that the group, who all came from the Subang and Puchong area, usually attended the parade on their own, and that this was the first time all were present together.
“We’re most excited to see the jet flyovers as well as other national assets on display during the parade.
“The Abang Bomba too are another highlight we are looking forward to,” she said.
On their hopes for Malaysia, they said unity is an extremely important component for the country.
“We always hope that Malaysia’s harmony continues and that the country remains independent and peaceful,” she said.
For Sadhana Mohd Yasin, 43, this would be the second time she would be attending the parade together with her family.
“We arrived at about 4am after travelling from Banting. We’re excited to see the various floats and our child is very excited to see the jets especially,” she said.
Over 80,000 people are expected for this year’s celebrations, either matching or surpassing turnout in previous years.
The school holidays and the transport facilities provided by the organisers are also expected to contribute to the turnout.
