KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 31 – Malaysia’s 56th Merdeka Day celebration at Dataran Merdeka today was an extraordinary one as it touched the people’s hearts on the importance of protecting the country’s security and sovereignty, Communication and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek said Saturday.
He said this year’s celebration was on honouring and appreciating members of the security forces who were killed in protecting the country’s peace and harmony following the Lahad Datu intrusion in March this year.
Family members of the soldiers killed in Op Daulat were also honoured by having them on the main stage and during the performance by the elite 69 commando team.
“This is different from what we used to have because it touches our hearts that security has to be fought and protected and the people have to appreciate it,” he told reporters after the Merdeka parade here.
Shabery, who is also the chairman of the 56th Merdeka Day celebration organising committee, said he was satisfied and happy with the success of the parade.
He estimated the crowd at Dataran Merdeka who came to watch the Merdeka Day parade at 200,000 people.
“This is the biggest celebration. There are also more people who gathered here today to show their gratitude to our security forces,” he added.
– BERNAMA
