A musical for Malaysia Day

'Malaysia Madani Kesejahteraan Dinikmati' is staged in Kuching on September 16, dramatising the courage and sacrifices of the nationalists who fought for Malaysia's formation.

Eighteen minutes, one message

Director Zakaria Hassan built the short performance around patriotism, unity and solidarity as the foundations that made the nation possible in the first place.

“the spirit of patriotism, unity and solidarity as vital foundations”

Tired of the same show

Zakaria is blunt about why this one is different. Annual Malaysia Day performances have started to feel repetitive, so the team went looking for a fresh format.

“Every year, we celebrate Malaysia Day, but sometimes the performances can feel a bit repetitive.”

Remembering what it cost

The constant across every version, he says, is the people who gave their time, energy and lives for the country. That sacrifice is the spine of the show.

“the sacrifices of those who gave their time, energy and even their lives for the nation”

Sung, danced, acted

Instead of the usual pantomime or dance routine, the production carries its message through acting, singing, live music and dance, with several ethnic languages used on stage.

“we want to showcase Malaysia's diversity and spirit of unity”

Seventy people, three weeks

About 70 actors, musicians and crew spent more than three weeks rehearsing, including sessions at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly building.

Sarawakian from top to bottom

The entire production team is Sarawakian, giving local performing arts talent a real platform. The cast features Azam Pitt and radio presenter Sharifah Elya Nabila.

Five thousand in the room

Around 5,000 people are expected at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, with Yang Dipertua Negeri Tun Dr Wan Junaidi as guest of honour, joined by Anwar Ibrahim and Abang Johari.