Malaysia Day – September 16, 2022
On September 16, Malaysia Day is observed to mark the anniversary of the creation of the Malaysian Federation, which occurred on that same day in 1963. Although it may seem odd that Malaysia has two distinct national holidays, each one is infused with stories of sacrifice and liberation. As a result, Malaysia recognizes both days as honored days. Hari Malaysia is another name for Malaysia Day. It wasn't until 2010 that this day became an official holiday. National rituals honoring Malaysians' resilience are a major part of Malaysia Day celebrations.
History Of Malaysia Day
The Malaysian Federation was founded on September 16, 1963, and that day is recognized as Malaysia Day. Malaysia was created by the union of the Malaya Federation, the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, and the former British Colony of Singapore. However, on August 9, 1965, two years after joining the Federation, Singapore left.
The 31st of August is Independence Day in Malaysia and a federal holiday. Even though it is odd for a nation to have two national holidays, the union of East Malaysia and the Federation of Malaya is cause for joy.
Sabah was a state rich in petroleum, and the Philippines and Malaysia both desired control of it. But Sabah joined the Malaysian Federation 17 years before it became a British colony. The Indonesian Islands of Sipadan and Ligitan were formally recognized as being a part of Sabah as a result of the influx of Indonesian refugees in the 1970s and the dispute over Sabah's claim to some of the nearby islands.
The Brooke Dynasty, also known as the "white rajas," governed the state of Sarawak. Under their leadership, Sarawak saw prosperity and growth. In 1963, these two nations became members of the Malaysian Federation. Before the previous prime minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak made the request, that Malaysia Day was not a recognized holiday. In 2010, it was declared a public holiday.
Malaysia Day Timeline
1824
Britannic Colony
On March 17, 1824, British Rule over Malaysia began.
1945
Liberation from Japan
Japan cedes the territory of Malaysia after receiving two atomic bombs.
1948
Federation of Malaysia
The Malaysian federation is made up of the former British colonies.
1963
Independence
On August 31, 1963, Malaysia became independent.
How To Celebrate Malaysia Day
1. Attend ceremonies
To boost Malaysians' spirits and morale, the government holds several patriotic celebrations on this day. You can organize a little event in your school or house where you can inform others about Malaysia's rich history if you don't want to participate in the formal program.
2. Watch parades
Grab your TV remote if you want to celebrate Malaysia Day at home; there is typically live footage of the parade available. To learn more about Malaysia's history, you can also watch a video or listen to its national anthems.
3. Pay tribute
Pay respects to both the citizens who died attaining independence as well as the dead military. On this day, Malaysians should remember the struggles their ancestors endured to ensure the current freedom of their nation.
Why We Celebrate Malaysia Day
1. It spreads unity
Malaysia Day promotes peace and harmony. The manner that the diverse nations of Singapore, Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak worked together in the face of difficulties is a wonderful illustration of cooperation.
2. It is a festive day
What could be more exciting than taking the day off and taking part in national holiday celebrations? On Malaysia Day, which is a recognized holiday, numerous ceremonies are held. National anthems are sung by people to boost one another's spirits.
3. It is a day of victory
Malaysia Day honors the ties of friendship between Singapore, Sabah, Sarawak, and Malaysia. All of these countries overcome their difficulties and came together to form a unified federation, making today a victory day.
Malaysia Day FAQS
What is the difference between Merdeka Day and Hari Malaysia?
When Singapore, Sabah, and Sarawak joined it on September 16, 1963, the Malaysian Federation was officially established. Every year, Malaysians celebrate this day's anniversary as Hari Malaysia. However, August 31, also known as Merdeka Day, is considered to be the actual date of independence.
When did Singapore separate from Malaysia?
On August 9, 1965, Singapore broke away from Malaysia to become an independent state.
Is Malaysia Day a public holiday?
Of course, Malaysia Day became a recognized holiday in 2010.
5 Fun Facts About Malaysia Day
1. Representation of Singapore
The star's corner on the flag originally stood for Singapore, but it was later modified to stand for Kuala Lumpur.
2. Actual date
Instead of September 16, the public ceremony was held on September 17.
3. Same date
Malaysia Day was originally scheduled to happen on August 31, the same day as Merdeka Day, but the UN moved it up to September 16.
4. Denial of Malaysia Day
In opposition to Malaysia Day, the Kelantan State Government even sued Tunku Abdul Rahman; the case was dismissed on September 14.
5. Different Independence Days
Different Independence Days are observed in Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak.
