By UOW Malaysia 

The UOW Malaysia Glenmarie Campus celebrated Malaysia Day with vibrant festivities on Tuesday, 24 September 2024, bringing together more than 500 students, staff, and the local community to honour the nation’s rich cultural heritage. The event commenced with an inspiring opening speech by the UOW Malaysia Vice-Chancellor, setting an uplifting tone for the day’s activities.

After the speech, participants came together for a sing-along of the national anthem, “Negaraku,” and the patriotic song “Setia,” igniting a deep sense of national pride. A student representative then led the pledge of the national principles, “Rukun Negara,” highlighting the core values that unite Malaysians. The celebration continued with a heartfelt poem recitation by another student representative, beautifully conveying the essence of unity and patriotism. The atmosphere was further uplifted as attendees joined in singing two more patriotic songs, “Keranamu Malaysia” and “Jalur Gemilang,” fostering a spirit of camaraderie and togetherness.

At noon, the opening ceremony for the Cultural Performance highlighted Malaysia’s diverse traditions, followed by a series of captivating performances that showcased various cultural expressions. These performances reflected the rich tapestry of Malaysia’s heritage, captivating the audience with traditional dances and music.

The excitement continued with the opening ceremony for the “Heritage Walk: A Fashion Journey,” featuring a costume competition. Participants adorned themselves in traditional attire, representing the various ethnicities that contribute to Malaysia’s multicultural identity. The heritage walk commenced shortly after, allowing contestants to showcase their stunning outfits.

The day concluded with an awards ceremony and photo session, recognising the outstanding contributions of participants in both the cultural performances and the costume competition. Finally, the closing ceremony wrapped up a day filled with joy and unity, leaving everyone with a renewed appreciation for Malaysia’s diverse heritage.

The Malaysia Day celebration highlighted UOW Malaysia’s respect and appreciation for cultural diversity and inclusivity and fostered a strong sense of community among staff and students. The occasion was a memorable celebration of the patriotism of the nation’s ethnic communities.