PHOTO ESSAY | After two years of dull celebrations due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this year’s Merdeka Day returns in full colour with tens of thousands waving the Jalur Gemilang at Dataran Merdeka.

The celebration for the 65th anniversary of the country’s independence today saw over 20,000 people participating in the performances and parade as well as 76 service animals, 369 land assets and 68 aircraft from various agencies.

Dataran Merdeka is a historic landmark that witnessed the raising of the Jalur Gemilang for the first time on Aug 31, 1957.

Armoured vehicles belonging to the armed forces make an appearance at the National Day celebration 2022.

A total of 60 cadet officers from the Military Training Academy of the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) and trainee cadets from the Royal Malaysian Police Training Center carry the Jalur Gemilang during the National Day parade.

A strong crowd is seen on the grounds of Dataran Merdeka to celebrate as they proudly wave the Jalur Gemilang.

Covid-19 frontliners receive a standing ovation as the contingent marched past the crowd during the National Day parade.

A contingent of security helicopters leads the air salute of various agencies in celebration of National Day.

As many as 600 students from 24 schools around Selangor performed at the National Day celebration.

Armed forces personnel prepare for their National Day performance.

Members of the School Youth Cadets carry the Jalur Gemilang at the National Day parade.

An armed forces personnel saluting from an armoured vehicle in conjunction with the National Day celebration.

Students from schools around Selangor wearing colours of the national flag participate in the National Day celebration.

Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah and Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah riding a royal carriage during the parade.

Soldiers in full army uniform and face paint prepare for their National Day appearance for the celebration at Dataran Merdeka.

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