TAWAU: The town of Tawau was transformed into a major party ground as residents joined in the carnival-like atmosphere for the launch of the National Month and 'Fly the Jalur Gemilang' campaign here.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will be launching the programmes to herald Merdeka Day on Aug 31 and Malaysia Day on Sept 16 later tonight, but a host of activities were held since morning to rev things up.
Early this morning, over 10,000 people turned up for the Jalur Gemilang Run at the Municipal Council grounds.
Sabah Youth and Sports Minister Datuk Tawfiq Abu Bakar Titingan flagged off the runners. He noted that the large turnout, which was double the expected number of participants, indicated that people from all walks of life were eager to take part in the event aimed at instilling patriotism ahead of Merdeka Day and Malaysia Day.
Setting the mood for the evening launch were local buskers who performed at the airport to greet visitors on their arrival while the centrestage is kept vibrant with popular performers belting out songs to keep guests entertained.
Zahid is also expected to flag off the "Jalur Gemilang Convoy" that will see members of the civil service touring the state to fly the national flag.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak, who chairs the National Day and Malaysia Day 2016 celebrations main committee, had said the ‘Sehati, Sejiwa’ (One Heart, One Soul) theme from last year will be retained.
Salleh had said the theme could boost the people’s spirit of patriotism and love for the country. The use of the term ‘Hari Kebangsaan’ (National Day) without mention of the number of years is also retained.
Other programmes to be held until October, include the MERDEKA@community, ‘Doa Untuk Malaysia’ (Prayers for Malaysia), ‘Kayuhan Sehati Sejiwa’ (One Heart, One Soul Cycling), Merdeka Carnival, ‘Amanat Hari Kebangsaan’ (National Day Message), National Day 2016 Parade and Malaysia Day 2016 celebration.