2025 National Day: Human Graphic Formation Raises Patriotic Spirit

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- The human graphics and choir performance by 2,000 students from 50 secondary schools across Selangor and the Federal Territory captivated nearly 100,000 spectators at the National Day celebration at Dataran Putrajaya today.

Using a giant 11-page plotting book as their guide, the students formed iconic phrases such as “Daulat Tuanku,” “Rukun Negara,” and “Negaraku.” They also performed a medley of patriotic and folk songs, including Wau Bulan, Dia Datang, and Sayang Kinabalu, before accompanying Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza in singing this year’s National Day theme song.

Among the students involved was Yap Regine, 16, of SMK Kepong, who described her participation as an unforgettable experience.

“It was exhausting because we had been training since June, but it was all worth it. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we are very proud to be part of the National Day celebration,” she said, adding that she would gladly participate again if given the chance.

SMK Teluk Panglima Garang student Qasrina Adni Md Zan, 15, shared that each training session pushed her both physically and mentally, but she saw it as a valuable opportunity.

“Sometimes the coaches were very strict, but we realised it was not for fun, it was to push us to give our best in front of the leaders and the public. Not every student gets to experience something this meaningful,” said Qasrina, who also plays the gamelan instrument bonang.

 SMK Kepong English teacher Mastura Zulkifli, who accompanied 41 students for the performance, said it was the first time the school had participated in such an event, calling it a historic experience for the students.

“All 41 participants were active members of the choir club. When they were selected for a performance that combined both formation and singing, they embraced the challenge with remarkable enthusiasm.

“Training began in June at KSL Esplanade Mall, Klang, together with participants from other schools. Although it was tiring, the students remained committed because they wanted to give their very best for the country,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Creative Industry Contingent drew special attention from children with the appearance of 10 popular local animation mascots, including Didi & Friends, Mechamato, and Omar & Hana.

Animation Division Head Hazrimi Omar said the contingent continued the tradition of participating in the National Day parade by showcasing beloved characters from the local creative industry.

“This year, we have 150 participants representing the creative and animation industry. The public, especially children, always look forward to seeing these mascots every year,” he said.

The 2025 National Day celebration, themed “Malaysia MADANI: Rakyat disantuni”, began as early as 7 am with the arrival of national leaders, followed by His Majesty  Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia.

This year’s parade featured 81 contingents involving 14,062 participants, including 21 marching bands, seven decorated floats, 508 land and air assets, and 116 animals from public service units.

-- BERNAMA