Malaysia Day marks the formation of Malaysia in 1963, when Malaya, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore united to form the Federation of Malaysia. Although Singapore later became independent in 1965, Malaysia Day remains a significant day in the country's history.

Table of Contents

1. When is Malaysia Day?
2. The History of Malaysia Day?
3. What Do People Do on This Day?
4. The History of Malaysia

When is Malaysia Day?

Malaysia Day is celebrated annually on September 16, and it marks the formation of Malaysia on September 16, 1963.

The following is the list of Malaysia Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Malaysia Day

Malaysia Day marks the union of Malaya, North Borneo (now Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore to establish the Federation of Malaysia.

Malaya gained independence from British rule on August 31, 1957. In the early 1960s, the idea of forming a larger federation was proposed to unite territories under British colonial rule in Southeast Asia.

In 1961, Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaya's first Prime Minister, proposed the creation of Malaysia to include Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak, Brunei, and Singapore. The formation aimed to foster economic development, strengthen defense against regional threats and promote unity.

A commission led by Lord Cobbold was set up to assess public opinion in North Borneo and Sarawak about joining Malaysia, and the majority of people supported the formation.

On July 9, 1963, the Malaysia Agreement was signed in London by representatives from Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak, and Singapore. The agreement outlined terms for autonomy, religious freedom, and control over immigration for Sabah and Sarawak.

Initially included in the plan, Brunei opted out of the federation due to political and economic concerns.

Malaysia was initially set to be declared on August 31, 1963, to coincide with Malaya's independence anniversary. However, it was delayed due to opposition from Indonesia and the Philippines, which contested the inclusion of North Borneo and Sarawak.

On September 16, 1963, Malaysia was officially formed, bringing together Malaya, North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore into one nation.

Singapore left the federation on August 9, 1965, becoming an independent state due to political and economic disagreements.

In 2010, the Malaysian government declared Malaysia Day a national public holiday to acknowledge its importance.

What Do People Do on This Day?

On Malaysia Day, ceremonies are held in cities and towns to honor Malaysia's unity. The national anthem, Negaraku, is sung, and the Malaysian flag is prominently displayed. Leaders deliver speeches reflecting on the country's progress, unity, and the significance of Malaysia Day.

Streets, public buildings and homes are decorated with the Malaysian flag and banners reflecting the themes of unity and national pride.

Vibrant parades showcase the cultural diversity of Malaysia, featuring traditional costumes, music and dances from various ethnic groups, including Malays, Chinese, Indians, and indigenous communities of Sabah and Sarawak.

Museums and galleries often hold special exhibitions detailing the history of Malaysia's formation including the role of Sabah and Sarawak.

Donations and volunteer programs are organized to promote unity and give back to the community. Sports competitions, fun runs and other recreational activities are held to foster camaraderie among Malaysians.

Many Malaysians spend the public holiday with loved ones, enjoying meals and reflecting on their shared heritage. Some take the opportunity to visit Sabah and Sarawak to experience their unique cultures firsthand.

The History of Malaysia

Archaeological evidence shows that Malaysia was inhabited as early as the Paleolithic period. Early humans in the region lived as hunter-gatherers and later practiced agriculture and trade.

Several early Kingdoms existed in the region including the Langkasuka Kingdom (2nd–14th century CE), the Srivijaya Empire (7th–13th century CE), and the Majapahit Empire (13th–16th century CE).

Islam was introduced through Arab, Indian, and Persian traders in the 13th century, and the religion spread rapidly due to its appeal to Malay rulers and its compatibility with trade practices.

Founded around 1400, Malacca became a thriving port and a center of Islamic learning. Malacca's strategic location attracted traders from China, India, and the Middle East.

In 1511, the Portuguese captured Malacca to control its lucrative trade routes. The Dutch ousted the Portuguese in 1641 and ruled Malacca as part of the Dutch East Indies.

In 1786, the British established a settlement in Penang, followed by Malacca (1824) and Singapore (1819), forming the Straits Settlements. During World War II, Japan occupied Malaya, Borneo, and Singapore, disrupting British control.

After the war, the British returned but faced growing resistance from the Malayan Communist Party during the Malayan Emergency (1948 – 1960).

On August 31, 1957, Malaya gained independence, becoming the Federation of Malaya. On September 16, 1963, Malaya joined with North Borneo (Sabah), Sarawak, and Singapore to form Malaysia.

In 1965, Singapore left the federation due to political and economic disagreements, becoming an independent nation.