MORE than 25,000 people from all walks of life thronged the Batu Kawan Stadium this morning to witness Penang’s state-level National Day parade in conjunction with Malaysia’s 68th Independence Day.
This year’s celebration carried the theme ‘Malaysia Madani: Rakyat Disantuni’ (Caring for Citizens).
Excitement filled the air as members of the public began gathering as early as 7.30am to secure the best viewing spots for the much-anticipated event.
The parade started around 8.30am following the arrival of Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tuan Yang Terutama Tun Ramli Ngah Talib and his consort Yang Mulia Toh Puan Raja Datuk Seri Utama Noora Ashikin Raja Abdullah.
Earlier, State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang arrived with his wife Datin Seri Teoh Hooi Tuang at around 8.20am, followed by Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow and his wife Tan Lean Kee at 8.25am.
Spectators were treated to a colourful parade featuring themed floats, marching contingents, military vehicles and a variety of musical performances that enlivened the spirit of independence.
This year’s parade featured 122 marching contingents representing state and federal departments, statutory bodies, government-linked companies (GLCs), non-governmental organisations (NGOs), with a total of 7,533 participants.
In addition, 22 vehicle contingents, involving 958 participants and 676 vehicles, took part. Altogether, 10,072 individuals, including organising committees and working personnel, were involved in the event.
Performances by the SMJK Jit Sin choir, cultural dancers, the Muhibah Drum Ensemble and guard-of-honour unit of the 2nd Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment added to the spectacle.
The celebration also featured 21 state and federal agency exhibition booths and displays of assets by the Fire and Rescue Department, police and the armed forces, drawing crowds of visitors.
In his National Day message, Chow reminded the people of the importance of unity in navigating today’s global challenges such as economic uncertainties, climate change, and social unrest.
“Let us not allow voices of hatred, divisive politics, or narrow racial sentiments to poison the harmony we have built together,” he said.
He stressed that raising the Jalur Gemilang symbolises more than patriotism – it reflects deep love and loyalty to the nation.
“Wave the Jalur Gemilang with pride along every street, in our neighbourhoods, schools, and workplaces. Let it be a symbol of unity, a tribute to our history of independence, and proof of our unwavering devotion to the country,” he urged.
Chow also reaffirmed Penang’s commitment to advancing education, strengthening the digital economy, and ensuring equitable opportunities for all, regardless of race, religion, or background.
“This is the true meaning of independence – the freedom to build a shared future for a more prosperous and inclusive state and nation,” he said.
Calling on Penangites to foster mutual understanding, cultivate tolerance, and appreciate diversity, Chow highlighted the spirit of Malaysia Madani.
“A Madani state is not only about physical progress but also about building moral strength and compassion in line with the national vision,” he noted.
He concluded with a rallying call for Malaysians to embrace National Day with renewed determination and unity of spirit.
“Independence is not just a story of the past to be remembered, but a responsibility for us and the generations to come.
“May the flame of patriotism and love for our homeland continue to burn brightly in every Malaysian heart. Happy 68th National Day,” Chow concluded.
Before the celebration drew to a close, winners of the marching contingents were announced across six categories:
The winners:
Public Agency Category
1. Lembaga Perumahan Negeri Pulau Pinang (LPNPP)
2. Majlis Bandaraya Seberang Perai (MBSP)
3. Pejabat Daerah dan Tanah Timur Laut
Private Agency Category
1. St John Ambulans Malaysia Negeri Pulau Pinang
2. Kompeni Butterworth Briged Putera Malaysia
3. Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB)
Higher Learning Institution Category
1. Kesatria Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Pulau Pinang
2. Institut Kemahiran Tinggi MARA (PERDA-Tech)
3. Pusat Pergigian Kanak-Kanak & Kolej Latihan Pergigian Malaysia
Marching Band Category
1. SMJK Chung Ling
2. SMJK Chung Ling Butterworth
3. SMK Bagan Jaya
School Uniformed Bodies Category
1. Briged Putera SMJK Perempuan Cina Pulau Pinang
2. Tunas Kadet Remaja Sekolah (TKRS) SJKC Min Sin
3. Kor Kadet Polis SMJK Chung Ling Pulau Pinang
Best Costume Category
1. Majlis Bandaraya Pulau Pinang (MBPP)
2. MBSP
3. Pejabat Daerah dan Tanah Seberang Perai Utara
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar and Law Suun Ting
Video by Ahmad Adil Muhamad