Putrajaya comes alive as National Day 2026 full rehearsal gets under way

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 29 — Dataran Putrajaya buzzed with activity as preparations for the 2026 National Day celebrations commenced today. From 8 am, the venue witnessed a spectacular display of uniformed contingents, the national flag, and the roar of military assets. Corporate and government-linked companies (GLCs) joined the festivities, complemented by lively special performances.

The Gema Inovasi Madani event saw patriotic songs and drum performances, drawing a crowd of thousands who arrived as early as 6 am. Families, representing various ethnicities and social backgrounds, brought their children to witness the event during the school holidays. Nurmaizatul Fatihah Hanif, 32, brought her three children to show support for her sibling, who is participating in the flag procession.

The aerial display and performance by the K9 unit sparked excitement in Nur Hafizza Mohd Shukri, 24, who plans to attend the main celebration on Aug 31. The rehearsal showcased vibrant cultural performances, including a human graphic display involving 1,500 students from 36 schools in Selangor. The Malaysian Armed Forces' defense assets, including tanks, armored vehicles, and amphibious vehicles, highlighted the country's defense capabilities.

A total of 10,819 participants, including 76 contingents, 22 marching bands, 11 decorated vehicles, 328 land, sea, and air assets, and 112 service animals, will take part in the 2026 celebrations expected to draw over 80,000 spectators.