Merdeka!

merdeka, originally uploaded by mincaye.

I'll let the photos do the talking.

L-R, from the top:

1. Glimpse of the King and Queen. They left the Ministry of Finance building rather unceremoniously, via carriage with cavalry escort. The crowds were all flocking to the parade ground, so hardly anyone was around when the Royal Couple made their first appearance.

2. Some of the (I believe) Royal Guards greeting their soldier friends.

3. An unidentified military unit folding up their flag after several exhibition formations on the main square.

4. Sam and me. No prizes for guessing who took this picture... *wink*

5. My friend Afri, head of the V.I. Band's bagpipe section.

6. The last time I held a flag up in the wind was during National Service, when I was flagbearer for the Bravo Company. It was a joy, albeit on a lesser degree this time.

7. Labrador Retrievers: the Fire Department's canine unit.

8. Kudos to the Police Force for putting up one of the two best march-pasts of the day; the other was the Fire Department's. Virtually every subdivision was represented, from the traffic police to the patrol cars and motorcycles. Even an antique fire engine made its appearance!


Here's to you, Malaysia... 48 years and counting!