Pray for Malaysia: 15,000 people converge on Dataran Merdeka

Dataran Merdeka was a sight to behold as 5,000 people joined in a mass prayer at the 'Pray for Malaysia' -- the mass prayer congregation held in a show of solidarity, last night.

Organised by the Communication and Multimedia Ministry, the programme was organised as part of the country's upcoming 57th Merdeka Day on Aug 31 in offering prayers for the nation's security, prosperity and well-being.

The evening kicked off with zikr (chants of prayers), Maghrib and Isyak prayers and followed by solat hajat (special prayers) led by Federal Territory mufti, Dr Zulkifli Mohamad Al Bakri. This religious procession continued with recitation of prayers for the country, led by Federal Territory Mosque Grand Imam Zakariah Isa.

The crowd was also mesmerised by a qasidah performance by Syeh Abdul Qadir Abdul Rahman As Seggaf.

A sense of humility was evident was participants of the programme extended their prayers, asking for Malaysia to be free from disease, danger and any form of disturbance.

The programme, broadcasted live on television, was attended by deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and wife, and Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

Also present were Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Datuk Seri Jamil Khir Baharom, Works Minister Datuk Fadillah Yusuf and Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor.

Co-organised by Federal Territory Islamic Affairs Council (MAIWP) and City Hall, the event also attracted a large number of Malaysian youths who thronged the venue from as early as 5pm.

The youths were largely impressed with the effort and hoped for more similar events to be held in the future.

According to Mohd Izzudin Mohd Hamdi, the event should be held regularly to ensure safety for the country.

For Mohd Aiman Hakim, he hoped for similar events in the future and to be filled with more chants of selawat.

"We should emphasise more on Maulid ... as the Prophet would in remembering his umat, yet we seldom think about him," said Mohd Aiman.

As for Mazura Mansor, she felt that the event was a good way to attract youngsters, foster good ties and instill positive values.

"It (the event) can attract the younger generations to come to ceremonies dedicated to celebrate our Prophet," she said.