Last updated on December 25, 2025
MELAKA: Melaka came alive today as 100 “Anak Merdeka” — individuals born on Malaysia’s Independence Day, gathered for a special celebration organised by the World Youth Foundation (WYF) Malaysia.
The event, held at Mahkota Parade, Banda Hilir, marked its second year with a giant cake-cutting ceremony that united participants across generations, from the youngest at just one year old to the oldest, aged 67.
WYF chairman Datuk Ridhwan Mohd Ali said the programme was designed to honour those who share the historic Aug 31 birth date.
“At WYF, we have identified, gathered and honoured these Melaka-born individuals in a special setting based on their birth date, which falls on the historic day of the country’s independence.
What makes it more meaningful is the diversity of generations celebrating together by cutting the cake, symbolising their birthdays that fall on the same date but in different years,”
he said.
The ceremony was further elevated by the attendance of Melaka Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam and WYF secretary-general Datuk Norsabrina Mohd Noor. Children dressed in Merdeka-themed costumes also added colour and vibrancy to the occasion, in line with Malaysia’s 68th National Day.
Ridhwan said the programme would continue annually as a platform to nurture patriotism, especially among the younger generation.
For Rahimah Abu, the oldest participant at 67, celebrating her birthday on Aug 31 has always felt extraordinary.
“I feel as though the whole of Malaysia is celebrating my birthday because every Aug 31, not only is it a holiday, but there are also many exciting programmes such as parades and fireworks.
It feels truly festive and of course, I am grateful each year to celebrate my birthday on this date. I always pray for our nation’s continued peace and prosperity,”
she said.
Source: Bernama
