7 Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Malaysia this Merdeka

As August arrives, the spirit of patriotism begins to fill the air in Malaysia. This is a special time when we come together to celebrate two important national days — Merdeka Day on 31 August, which marks Malaya ’s independence in 1957, and Malaysia Day on 16 September, the day our country was officially formed in 1963.

These two dates are not just public holidays—they remind us of how far we’ve come as a nation, the unity we share despite our diversity and the pride we have in calling Malaysia our home.

For 2025, the theme for both National Day and Malaysia Day is ‘Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni’, which means ‘Compassion for the People.’ This powerful message encourages all Malaysians to care for one another, show respect and work together to build a kind and united country.

Whether you're spending the holidays with your family and friends, or simply reflecting on what it means to be Malaysian, here are seven easy and meaningful ways to celebrate this Merdeka season.

Ways to Celebrate Merdeka Day

Fly the Jalur Gemilang with Pride

One of the most powerful ways to show your patriotism is by proudly flying the Jalur Gemilang, Malaysia’s national flag. Whether you display it outside your home and on your car, it’s a visual reminder of our shared national identity.

Many neighbourhoods, schools and businesses organize flag-raising ceremonies and decorate their surroundings with flags of various sizes. You can even get creative and include the flag in DIY crafts, home decor or accessories.

Parents and educators can take this opportunity to teach children the meaning behind the flag’s design. Understanding these symbols helps build a deeper appreciation of our nation's values.

2. Wear Traditional Outfits and Celebrate Diversity

Malaysia is home to a rich tapestry of cultures and Merdeka is a wonderful time to honour this diversity through fashion. Dressing in traditional attire such as the Baju Kurung, Cheongsam, Saree or traditional Indigenous outfits is a meaningful way to express pride in and celebrate our diverse cultural heritage., our own as well as those of others.

Go beyond the formal events — wear these outfits to the office, to meet friends or even while shopping or dining out. Use every opportunity to explain the origins and meanings behind your attire to others. It stimulates conversations, builds bridges and promotes mutual respect.

Some schools and companies even organise Merdeka dress-up days, giving everyone a chance to participate and appreciate the unique beauty of Malaysia’s multicultural heritage.

3. Visit a Merdeka-Themed Bazaar

Throughout August and September, towns and cities across Malaysia will be buzzing with Merdeka-themed bazaars. These lively markets are filled with a variety of local food, cultural performances, handmade goods and activities that cater to all ages.

These are not just fun outings — they also offer us a chance to support local entrepreneurs while experiencing the rich variety of Malaysia’s sights, sounds and tastes. Many features live music and dance performances, making them perfect for a family day out.

Some exciting upcoming events include Check-In Merdeka, Fun Market at Pasar Seni (29 August – 1 September), Campus Market at The Campus (28 – 31 August) and Haowan Market (Merdeka Day) at Kiara Bay, Kepong (29 Aug–1 September), with even more events to explore across the country.

4. Watch the National Day Parade with Loved Ones

The National Day parade is one of the most anticipated events during the Merdeka Day. Featuring the Malaysian Armed Forces, government agencies, school contingents, cultural troupes and creative floats, the parade is a visual and emotional celebration of the country’s journey and achievements.

If you’re in Putrajaya or Kuala Lumpur, attend the parade in person and feel the unity and excitement in the air. Otherwise, tune in to the live TV or online broadcast from the comfort of your home. Organise a Merdeka morning viewing party with snacks and drinks, and make it a bonding experience with family or friends

Children especially enjoy seeing the colourful costumes, traditional dances and listening to patriotic songs. You could use this time to talk about the importance of national service and unity.

5. Discover Malaysia’s Heritage at Museums and National Landmarks

Make the most of the Merdeka season by reconnecting with Malaysia’s roots. Plan visits to cultural and historical landmarks such as the National Museum, the Penang Peranakan Mansion, Melaka’s Stadthuys or the Sabah State Museum.

These places offer rich insights into Malaysia’s past, from colonial times to independence and beyond. Many museums also host special Merdeka exhibitions, storytelling sessions or interactive workshops during this time of year.

It’s a great way to make learning fun, especially for children. Take photos, ask questions and reflect on how the past has shaped the Malaysia we know today.

6. Plan a Local Getaway and Explore Hidden Gems

The Merdeka weekend in 2025 is extra special, as 1 September (Monday) has been declared a public holiday, giving everyone the perfect opportunity for a relaxing three-day getaway.

Plan a getaway to scenic spots like Kundasang and Sekinchan,noted for their lush landscapes and peaceful surroundings. If you prefer the sea, unwind by the coast in Kuala Terengganu or Langkawi, perfect for enjoying sun, sand and the serene rhythm of the waves.

Travelling within the country not only supports local tourism, but also strengthens our connection with Malaysia’s incredible diversity, from kampung life and hilltop retreats to bustling cities and pristine beaches.

7. Cook a Malaysian Feast and Celebrate Through Food

Nothing brings Malaysians together like food. Celebrate Merdeka by whipping up some of our nation’s most beloved dishes such as nasi lemak, char kuey teow, rendang chicken, thosai,laksa, satay or kuih-muih.

You can host a potluck or food-themed gathering, where everyone contributes a dish from their culture. Not only does this spark meaningful conversations, but it also allows everyone to learn about and savour the different cuisines of Malaysia.

Feel free to include fun touches like flag-themed cupcakes, red-white-blue table décor or even a mini game to make the gathering more festive and educational.

Celebrating Merdeka and Malaysia Day involves much more than fireworks and parades. It’s about honouring our past, appreciating our present and working together towards a brighter future.

The 2025 theme, ‘Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni’, is a call to action—a reminder that kindness, empathy and unity must remain at the heart of our national identity.

Whether you choose to fly the flag, dress in traditional attire, travel locally or cook up your favourite dish, every small act of celebration helps to strengthen the bonds that make Malaysia so very special.

So, this Merdeka season, let’s wear our patriotism proudly, celebrate our differences joyfully and continue building a Malaysia that reflects the best of who we are.

Selamat Hari Merdeka ke-68, Malaysia!

国庆日怎么过？7个有趣又有意义的庆祝方式推荐

随着八月的到来，爱国情怀开始在马来西亚各地升温。在这个特殊的时期，全国人民齐聚一堂，共同庆祝两个重要的国家纪念日— 8月31日的国庆日（Merdeka Day），纪念马来亚于1957年摆脱殖民统治、获得独立；以及9月16日的马来西亚日（Malaysia Day），纪念1963年马来西亚的正式成立。

这两个节日不仅仅是公共假期，更是提醒我们国家经历过的历程、体现了我们在多元差异中凝聚的团结精神，以及我们对身为马来西亚人的自豪感。

2025年，国庆日与马来西亚日的官方主题为 “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat Disantuni” ，这个主题强调 “以人为本、关怀人民” 。它提倡马来西亚人以善意、尊重和团结的精神，共同建设一个充满同理心与包容的社会。

无论您是与家人朋友共度佳节，还是独自思考马来西亚身份的意义，以下是七种简单而有意义的方式，让您在今年的国庆季节中庆祝国家的辉煌。

庆祝国庆日的方式

1. 悬挂马来西亚国旗 Jalur Gemilang

表达爱国情怀最直接的方式之一，就是自豪地悬挂马来西亚国旗 — Jalur Gemilang。无论是在家门前和车上，这面旗帜象征着我们共同的国家认同。

许多社区、学校和公司都会举行升旗仪式，甚至以各式国旗装饰周边环境，营造节庆氛围。您也可以将国旗融入手工艺品、家居装饰或配饰中，发挥创意。

家长与教育工作者更可借此机会，教导孩子国旗颜色与图案背后的象征意义，从小培养他们的国家认同感。

2. 穿上传统服饰，展现多元文化

马来西亚是一个多元种族的国家，国庆是展示和庆祝文化多样性的绝佳时机。穿上传统服饰如马来传统服装 Baju Kurung、华人旗袍、印度纱丽、原住民服饰等，不仅是表达自豪感的有意义方式，更是庆祝我们多元文化遗产的体现，无论是自身的，还是其他族群的。

不必局限于正式场合，您可以在工作日、朋友聚会或日常出行中穿着传统服饰，向他人讲解其历史与意义。这些互动有助于促进了解，增强国民之间的联系。

部分学校和公司也会举办“传统服装日”，鼓励员工和学生参与，进一步推动文化交流与认同。

3. 逛一逛国庆主题市集

八月至九月期间，许多城市与城镇都会举办国庆主题市集。这些热闹非凡的市集汇集了各式各样的本地美食、传统表演、手工艺品和适合各年龄层参与的活动。

这不仅是家庭出游的好去处，也提供我们支持本地小商贩的机会，同时让我们沉浸在马来西亚多姿多彩的文化氛围之中。部分市集还设有现场音乐与舞蹈表演，为全家人带来欢乐。

其中几个值得关注的市集包括：Pasar Seni 的“Check-In Merdeka, Fun Market”（8月29日至9月1日）、The Campus 的“Campus Market”（8月28日至31日），以及甲洞 Kiara Bay 的“Haowan Market”（8月29日至9月1日）等，还有更多活动将在全国各地展开。

4. 与亲友一同观赏国庆大阅兵

国庆大阅兵是一年一度最受瞩目的庆典之一。现场展示包括马来西亚武装部队、政府机构、学生团体、文化表演队伍及创意花车，象征着国家的多元与进步。

如果你身处布城或吉隆坡，不妨前往现场感受热烈的氛围；若无法亲临，亦可与亲友一同在家通过电视或网络观看直播，为这个庄严时刻增添家庭温馨。

孩子们尤其喜欢阅兵中的彩色服饰、传统舞蹈与爱国歌曲，也可借此机会与他们分享国家独立的故事及公民责任的重要性。

5. 探访历史遗迹与国家地标

趁着国庆假期，不妨深入探索马来西亚的历史与文化。你可以前往国家博物馆、槟城娘惹博物馆、马六甲荷兰红屋、沙巴州博物馆等具有代表性的文化地标。

这些地点见证了马来西亚从殖民统治到独立自主的关键时刻。每年的国庆季节，许多博物馆还会推出特别展览、导览或互动活动，非常适合亲子出游。

在轻松的环境中学习历史，不仅提升知识，更增强我们对国家发展历程的理解与珍惜。

6. 来一场国内小旅行，探索风景与文化之美

2025年国庆假期特别幸运，9月1日（星期一）列为公共假期，构成一个三天连休的好时机。

安排一趟短程国内旅行，前往如沙巴昆达山（Kundasang）、适耕庄（Sekinchan）等自然景点，在郁郁葱葱的自然景观与宁静环境中放松身心。如果你喜爱大海，可以前往瓜拉登嘉楼或兰卡威的海岸放松身心，在阳光、沙滩与宁静的海浪节奏中尽情享受。

在国内旅游不仅能支持本地经济，也让我们重新认识马来西亚的文化与自然多样性，从乡村到城市，从山林到海岸，都是国家魅力的体现。