Malaysia turns 50

It’ll be a holiday this Monday 16 September 2013.  Malaysia turns 50 on that day.  Only two weeks ago we celebrated Merdeka (Independence) Day on 31 August.  It was a Saturday, and the Monday was not declared holiday in-lieu.

We used to celebrate both days on 31 August, until three years ago (2010) when the Opposition made some hue and cry about the people of Sabah and Sarawak should not be made to celebrate Malaya’s independence day instead of the day when they joined Malaya to form Malaysia on 16 September, 1963.

So, there we are, another holiday for holiday-rich Malaysians.

For the Armed Forces, 16 September is Armed Forces Day when there would usually be a grand “trooping the colours” parade at Sungai Besi Camp; and various units in the country would have an Open Day.

That means the public could visit the units and see displays of weaponry, aircraft and ships at close quarters; and learn about the roles and functions of the Armed Forces. It’s not a holiday though. 
So now, what? Well, this year they’ll still celebrate their 80th anniversary and hold a parade and display at Dataran Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur on Sept 21.  Hooray!

Afternote:
Would you believe it. A Datuk Seri Dominic Andrew Dago who was involved in the discussion with the Cobbold Commission regarding the formation of Malaysia in 1963, said he suggested the name of the new country should be "Borbrusima," What a scream!