Malaysia marks 67th anniversary of independence

PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Aug. 31 (Xinhua) — Malaysia marked the 67th anniversary of independence on Saturday, with a huge public turnout at the administration center of Putrajaya to mark the National Day.
Over 17,000 people were forming 59 contingents representing various segments of the Malaysian society including civil society organizations, state-owned enterprises, the civil service and armed forces, according to the Malaysian national news agency Bernama.
Watching the parade of various groups were the Southeast Asian country’s King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and cabinet members.
The air force put on a show with fighter aircraft and various helicopters flying in formation and performing maneuvers.
In a speech on the eve of the anniversary, Anwar emphasized that independence enjoyed today by the nation was achieved through the strength of its people who were united.
“I want to invite all Malaysians to welcome the independence celebration on the strength of every race that is united, although each has a different opinion. In this beloved country of ours, every citizen must be given protection, shown love and given sufficient defense,” he said. ■