{
  "id": 4577546,
  "title": "Wheelchair not a barrier for grandparents at Merdeka parade",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/wheelchair-not-a-barrier-for-grandparents-at-merdeka-parade",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-08-31T05:09:19.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/regional/2026/08/1522688/wheelchair-not-barrier-grandparents-merdeka-parade"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In Melaka, an elderly couple braved limited mobility to attend the National Day parade, where their 17-year-old granddaughter participated. Zainah Zakaria, 80, and Abdul Ghafur Mustapha used a walking stick and wheelchair, respectively. Their granddaughter, Nur Alisha, played the drums during the festivities. Despite physical discomfort, they came to witness their granddaughter's involvement in the parade, which made the pain and exhaustion fade. Zainah expressed that National Day celebrations have become more vibrant over the years, bringing together Malaysians of various races. The spirit of independence remains strong, and she hopes that unity among the multiracial society continues. Assisted by Community Paramedic volunteers, the elderly couple enjoyed the festivities. Meanwhile, 10-year-old Mohd Safri from SK Banda Hilir arrived early with his family, sleeping in their car until the celebration began. The parade saw over 70,000 people, 158 contingents, and various highlights including a human graphic display, cultural performances, and a showcase of national defense assets.",
  "summary": "MELAKA: Limited mobility did not stop an elderly couple from Bukit Katil from attending the National Day celebrations to watch their granddaughter take part in the parade.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "Malaysiakini",
        "title": "SNAPSHOT | Thousands throng Putrajaya for Merdeka parade; Nepal teacher lauded for saving 900 pupils",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/31/snapshot-thousands-throng-putrajaya-for-merdeka-parade-nepal-teacher",
        "published": "2026-08-31T03:00:00.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}