Malaysia Day is an annual celebration in Malaysia held on September 16 to commemorate the formation of the country in 1963. This day marks the joining of Malaya, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore (which later became independent) to form the Federation of Malaysia. Malaysia Day is a public holiday and is celebrated with many events across the country. Malaysia Day is a celebration of the country's unity and diversity. The annual event emphasises the coming together of different regions and ethnic groups to form a single, united nation. In this article, let’s know more about Malaysia Day 2024 date, history and the significance of the annual event. September 2024 Festivals, Events and Holidays Calendar: Complete List of Important National and International Days and Dates. 

Malaysia Day 2024 Date

Malaysia Day 2024 falls on Monday, September 16.

Malaysia Day History

The planned date for the formation of the new federation was June 1, 1963, but it was postponed to August 31, 1963, to coincide with the sixth anniversary of Hari Merdeka. Several issues relating to the objections of neighbouring Indonesia and the Philippines to the formation of Malaysia delayed the declaration to September 16, of the same year. The formation of Malaysia was done under the basis of the Malaysia Agreement, signed in 1963 by the United Kingdom, the Federation of Malaya, Sarawak, North Borneo, and Singapore. Beginning the year 2010, Malaysia Day became a nationwide public holiday and celebrations began in 2011.

Malaysia Day Significance

Malaysia Day is a day of national pride, giving Malaysians time to reflect on their shared history and achievements. The Malaysia Day celebrations are marked by various cultural events, parades, and performances that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country’s diverse population, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities. In many parts of the country, cultural festivals are organised, featuring traditional dances, music, and exhibitions that celebrate the different ethnic groups that make up Malaysia.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 16, 2024 06:30 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).