BRIEF BUT MEANINGFUL MERDEKA RALLY.

from BERNAMA, The Malaysian National News Agency KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- The national-level 52nd Merdeka celebration today was a brief and moderate affair in view of the Influenza A(H1N1) pandemic and in observance of the Ramadan fasting month, but the occasion was not without the fanfare and spirit of independence with the participation of people of all races in line with the 1Malaysia concept.

Carrying the theme "1Malaysia: People First, Performance Now", the event was held at Parliament Square instead of Dataran Merdeka, and was confined to a rally and performances without the usual parade of contingents and the participation of school children.

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