Embracing the New Year: The world welcomes 2026

Drones light up the night sky to celebrate the New Year in Busan, South Korea, early Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026. (Kang Sun-bae/Yonhap via AP)

PETALING JAYA: As the clock struck midnight, people across the globe erupted in celebration, marking the arrival of the New Year 2026 with an array of festivities. 

Major iconic landmarks served as the backdrop for dazzling fireworks displays, while each city added its own cultural flair.