PRIME Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim today expressed his appreciation to all those involved in the National Day celebrations today, including those who visited Dataran Putrajaya for the much-awaited parade.

In a Facebook post, Anwar said he hoped the people’s spirit of independence would continue to be strengthened and embedded in all levels of society.

“I express my appreciation to all those who flooded Dataran Putrajaya to celebrate Malaysia’s big day. The unity shown today is what the real Malaysia is all about,” he said in the post.

Calling this morning’s event extraordinary, the prime minister in a later post also conveyed his appreciation to those who took part in the parade, aerial display and performances.

“This is the spirit of unity we crave for Malaysia to stride forward as a great nation. We must appreciate the nation’s independence and sovereignty,” he said.

More than 100,000 people attended the celebrations at Dataran Putrajaya today, with 17,262 participants, 67 contingents, 36 brass bands, 534 land and air assets, and 100 service animals.

The event was broadcast live to millions of Malaysians via television and social media platforms. – Bernama, August 31, 2023.