{
  "id": 5335152,
  "title": "‘Merdeka!’ rings out in Brussels as Malaysians celebrate National Day abroad",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/03/merdeka-rings-out-in-brussels-as-malaysians-celebrate-national-day",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-09-03T13:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Malay Mail",
    "slug": "malay-mail-malaymail",
    "url": "https://www.malaymail.com/news/life/2026/09/03/merdeka-rings-out-in-brussels-as-malaysians-celebrate-national-day-abroad/233784"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "BRUSSELS, Sept 3 — From afar, the familiar cries of \"Merdeka!\" echoed through the streets of Brussels as hundreds of Malaysians united to celebrate their nation's 69th National Day. Organized by the Malaysian Embassy in Brussels and presided over by Ambassador Datuk Mohd Khalid Abbasi Abdul Razak, the event united fellow Malaysians residing in the city. The festivities commenced with the soulful rendition of the national anthem, followed by the solemn recitation of the national pledge.\n\nMohd Khalid, in his address, emphasized that independence was not merely a historical milestone but a responsibility that every Malaysian, regardless of their location, must uphold, cherish, and safeguard. \"The path to independence was not easily attained,\" he stated to Bernama, acknowledging the hardships endured by those who fought for freedom.\n\nThe Malaysian community in Brussels, represented by the Malaysia Belgium and Luxembourg Association (MABL) president Sarala Vanherck, highlighted the importance of the annual celebration in bringing together Malaysians residing in both countries. Vanherck emphasized that the event served as a vital platform to foster and strengthen the sense of patriotism among younger generations growing up abroad.\n\nAdding to the festive atmosphere was the presence of the national hockey squad, the Speedy Tigers, who were competing in the 2026 World Hockey Championship in Brussels. This added a touch of sporting pride to the occasion. To cap off the celebration, guests were treated to an array of Malaysian delicacies, including nasi Kak Wok, fried chicken, northern-style chicken bihun, chicken satay, and an assortment of traditional kuih.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 — Thousands of kilometres from home, the familiar cries of Merdeka! Merdeka! Merdeka! rang ou...",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "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."
}