KAJANG, Residents of Pangsapuri Gapura Bayu, Jade Hills here decided on a unique way of celebrating National Month this year by holding a mini Merdeka Parade around their apartment area today.

The 700-metre procession was joined by over 300 residents, including parents and children, all decked in attractive attire as they sung patriotic songs, rode decorated bicycles and waving small flags and carrying messages of love for their country.

The event’s chairman, Mohd Zulfadhli Mohd Zaki said the parade was one of three events, including a talk and a fustal and netball competition planned by the apartment’s surau, Surau al-Rayyan throughout the National Month.

‘This is the first time we organised National Day Malaysia Day events since the apartments were opened in 2019, and we want to foster patriotism and cooperation among residents here.

‘Alhamdulillah, even though we live in a strata property like a highrise building, it’s hard to gather at one time, but such a large turnout proves the good neighbourly sp
irit and unity we have amongst ourselves,’ he told Bernama today.

Besides the parade, an aerobic exercise session, a decorated bicycle competition, a Merdeka costume contest and handing of Jalur Gemilang flags were held as part of the event today, which was attended by Bangi MP Syahredzan Johan.

Resident Muhammad Ricky Abdullah, who participated in today’s festivities with his wife and two children, said that such efforts made the National Month festive and would instill patriotism in children at a young age.

“Our children are the next generation and will inherit our country. So they can learn how to love their country through such events,’ he added.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency