100 'Anak Merdeka' Celebrated With Giant Cake In Melaka

MELAKA, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- A total of 100 ‘Anak Merdeka’ who share the same birthday on Aug 31 from across Melaka were celebrated by the World Youth Foundation (WYF) Malaysia in a lively event that included the symbolic cutting of a giant cake together.

WYF chairman Datuk Ridhwan Mohd Ali said the programme, now in its second year, saw participation from the youngest at one year old to the oldest at 67.

“At WYF, we have identified, gathered and honoured these Melaka-born individuals in a special setting based on their birth date, which falls on the historic day of the country’s independence.

“What makes it more meaningful is the diversity of generations celebrating together by cutting the cake, symbolising their birthdays that fall on the same date but in different years,” he told reporters after officiating the Anak Merdeka Birthday Celebration at Mahkota Parade, Banda Hilir here today.

The event was made more special with the presence of Melaka Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam and WYF secretary-general Datuk Norsabrina Mohd Noor.

He said this year’s celebration was further enlivened by children in Merdeka-themed outfits in conjunction with the 68th National Day celebration.

He added that the celebration would continue as an annual event and serve as a platform to nurture patriotism, especially among the younger generation.

Meanwhile, the oldest participant, Rahimah Abu, 67, said she was always excited for her birthday as it coincided with a date of great significance for Malaysia.

“I feel as though the whole of Malaysia is celebrating my birthday because every Aug 31, not only is it a holiday, but there are also many exciting programmes such as parades and fireworks.

“It feels truly festive and of course, I am grateful each year to celebrate my birthday on this date. I always pray for our nation’s continued peace and prosperity,” said Rahimah, who lives in Semabok Dalam here.

-- BERNAMA