Malaysians In UAE Celebrate Merdeka With Patriotic Fervour
By Muin Abdul Majid
DUBAI, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- There were neither parades nor marching bands. But this did not stop Malaysians in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from coming in droves to celebrate Malaysia's 51st National Day at the embassy in Abu Dhabi Saturday.
They stood proudly as they sang Malaysia's national anthem, Negaraku, which accompanied the flag-raising in the embassy compound.
A "doa" (prayer) was also recited for the continued well-being of the country.
Later, with miniature Jalur Gemilang flags in hand, they gathered around in a crowd for the cake-cutting led by the charge d'affaires of the embassy, Fadli Adilah, and other embassy staff.
It was heartening to see Malaysians of various races mingling together -- catching up with each other, striking up new friendships or posing for pictures -- as they celebrated Merdeka, ahead of the fasting month of Ramadan.
Joining in the festivities were the heads of several Malaysian government agencies based in the UAE.
In his speech, Fadli spoke about the need for Malaysians to maintain racial unity in their homeland and beyond.
He mentioned that there were now 5,880 Malaysians with residence visas in the UAE, a number that has kept growing over the years.
"Safeguard the good name of Malaysia wherever you are and do continue to maintain cordial ties with each other," he said before leading the crowd in joyous shouts of "Merdeka".
The Malaysians also enjoyed a selection of dishes that reminded them of home.
The two-hour Merdeka bash, which started at about 8am, ended with a lucky draw offering various prizes, including tickets courtesy of Malaysia Airlines.
Malaysia marks its National Day on Aug 31.
-- BERNAMA
Photos by Abdul Halim Ab Rahman
