‘Integrated Op’ Steals The Show At Negeri Sembilan National Day Celebration

SEREMBAN, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- The Negeri Sembilan National Day celebration at Dataran Majlis Bandaraya Seremban today stood out with a sketch performance of an ‘integrated operation’ by security forces, captivating thousands of spectators.

The action-packed performance, held under the Whole of Government, Whole of Society (WoGoS) concept, reflected joint efforts by government agencies and the community to safeguard security, harmony and wellbeing, as well as the preparedness of security forces in responding to emergencies.

Among the agencies and organisations involved in the special performance were the Malaysian Armed Forces, Royal Malaysia Police, Immigration Department, Fire and Rescue Department, Ministry of Health, Malaysian Civil Defence Force, KPJ Seremban and the Seremban City Council.

It was conceptualised by Brigadier General Zamri Othman, Commander of the 1st Infantry Brigade and directed by Mohd Zuhairi Ibrahim, Artistic and Performance Concept director at the Negeri Sembilan National Culture and Arts Department.

Gracing the occasion were the Yang Dipertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, and Tunku Ampuan Besar, Tuanku Aishah Rohani Tengku Besar Mahmud, who were welcomed on arrival by Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun.

Also present were Undang Luak Johol Datuk Muhammed Abdullah, Undang Luak Jelebu Datuk Maarof Mat Rashad, Tunku Besar Tampin Tunku Syed Razman Tunku Syed Idrus Al-Qadri, and members of the state government leadership.

A total of 87 contingents comprising 5,000 participants took part in the parade, representing various government departments and agencies, statutory bodies, district administrations, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), schools, institutions of higher learning and private companies.

The Main Guard of Honour ceremony mounted by three officers and 103 personnel of the 15th Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment (RAMD), Senawang, was led by Major Muhammad Hazim Abdul Ghalib, with Lt Adam Bachtiar Ibrahim and Regimental Sergeant Major Warrant Officer I Muhd Azuwan Aziz as colour bearers.

Accompanying them was the 24th RAMD band together with two Royal Armoured Corps units of 32 personnel, led by Warrant Officer II Azuan Zakari, performing patriotic tunes including Berbuat Jasa, Perwira, Gagah Setia as well as the popular Malay classic Lemak Manis.

In addition to the sketch and the much-anticipated parade of agency assets and decorated floats, the Negeri Sembilan Tourism Board contingent introduced the official mascots of Visit Negeri Sembilan Year 2026, a pair of sambar deer named Jang and Dagho.

Aminuddin, when met by reporters after the event, expressed his admiration for this year’s performance and appreciation for the estimated 30,000 multiracial visitors who turned up to celebrate National Day despite the morning drizzle.

“Alhamdulillah, I extend my congratulations and thanks to the Commander of the 1st Infantry Brigade for his brilliant idea, which reminds the people to cherish the country’s peace and harmony.

“This year’s bigger crowd reflects stronger patriotic spirit. The audience was clearly happy with the performances; otherwise, they would not have come again,” he said.

Meanwhile, 70-year-old Junaidah Abdul Rahman from Taman Desaru, who came with her husband and two daughters, said she was thrilled and moved to witness the spirited performance.

We came as early as 3 am as we were worried about not getting seats. It was truly satisfying to watch today’s show. I felt emotional reflecting on the past and present, and appreciating the sacrifices of those who fought for independence. The patriotic songs really stirred our spirits,” she said, adding that she has never missed attending the National Day celebrations.

Teacher Nurul Hafizah Huzman, 40, who attended with her three children, said she wanted them to experience the celebration atmosphere and nurture a love for the country from an early age.

-- BERNAMA