Rehearsals in full flight

PUTRAJAYA: With only four days to go, the preparations for the 2018 National Day celebrations are in full swing to ensure that the parade and procession on Aug 31 will run smoothly.

Checks by Bernama at the Dataran Putrajaya, Presint 2 yesterday morning found members of marching band, dance performances as well as the contingent from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) busy in their rehearsals.

Student Noor Zaidah Akhir Sepian, 17, said although she felt tired after going through the rehearsals since Aug 18, she was excited to be involved in the celebration.

“I was invited by my friend to join the dance performances and really want to give my best on Aug 31,” said the fifth former from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Assunta, Petaling Jaya.

Another participant, Muhammad Syafiq Shah Wahid, 19, said this year marked his second involvement after his first in 2014.

“For this year’s parade I participate in the Jalur Gemilang dance performance, compared to 2014 when I was involved in marching then,” he said, adding that he hoped he will not make mistakes in his dance steps.

From today, visitors to the Royal Floria Putrajaya 2018, located about a kilometre from the Dataran Putrajaya, would have a chance to have closer look at the MAF assets.

They will also see a fly-past that involves 54 MAF air assets including helicopters, fighter jets and transport aircraft while the full-dress rehearsal will be held on Tuesday. – Bernama