Preparations for Malaysia Day celebrations in full swing

MELAKA: Preparations for the Malaysia Day celebrations that will take place at the Declaration of Independence Memorial Square in Banda Hilir this Friday, is progressing smoothly.

A walkabout by Bernama on tonight's rehearsal revealed that the installation works for the main stage, tents for guests, spectators' seats, audio tests and others are in full swing.

The line-up of artists involved in the performance such as Shaharuddin Thamby and the cultural artists of the National Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN) were also seen rehearsing to present their best performance at the celebration, held for the first time here.

Melaka Information Department (JaPen) Director Shahrom Ravin Daram Abdullah said preparations for the celebration have progressed according to schedule.

"Today morning, the 'dry run' will be carried out and in the evening, it will resume with a rehearsal session," he told Bernama.

To accommodate the 20,000 odd visitors expected at a location in the middle of the tourist centre, Dataran Pahlawan which is located next to the Declaration of Independence Memorial Square will also be used and will house a giant screen and audio system to allow visitors to follow the celebrations live.

The celebration of Malaysia Day this time will also feature some uniqueness with a fashion theme from the 50s and 60s era chosen for the celebration.

-- BERNAMA