Aug 31, 2024
Hari Merdeka 2024
This Doodle’s Key Themes
Today’s annual Doodle celebrates Hari Merdeka, or National Day, in Malaysia! On this day in 1957, the Federation of Malaya declared independence from foreign rule at the Merdeka Stadium in Kuala Lumpur.
More than 20,000 people gathered at the arena, which was built specifically for the celebration, to witness the formal transition. The young country’s national flag, like the one in today’s artwork, was also raised for the first time on that historic night. Later in 1963, Malaya united with Sabah and Sarawak to become modern-day Malaysia.
On Hari Merdeka, people attend lively ceremonies and observances all over the country to celebrate Malaysia’s progress. The main events like the Merdeka Parade still take place in Kuala Lumpur, where citizens gather for an unforgettable night of grand celebrations. Songs like Tanggal 31 and Satu Malaysia can be heard wherever you visit, and many enjoy dishes like Nasi Lemak (a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk and pandan leaves) and roti canai (flaky flatbread served with curry).
Selamat Hari Merdeka!
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