KOTA KINABALU: The Ramadan period has not deterred Sabahans from celebrating Merdeka Day at Likas Sports Complex here yesterday.

Mimi Haslinda Matmi, together with her husband and two young children, Nisa and Hafiz, said it is an opportunity for her children to experience the Merdeka Day celebration and enjoy the performances.

“They (her children) got up very early in the morning saying that they want to go to the celebration.

“We take part in the celebration every year and despite the Ramadan, we are very happy because we are still able to celebrate our Merdeka Day in a moderate setting.”

Malyia, 2, has more reason to celebrate Merdeka Day. She was born on Aug 31, 2007, a truly Merdeka Day baby.

Even her father, Salamat Saradin, 38, named her Malyia, a name derived from ‘Malaysia’.

“We celebrate Merdeka Day every year because we are proud to be Malaysian citizens in this multicultural country.”

Salamat is also the coach for the Institut Kemahiran Belia Negara contingent which participated in the celebration.

Captain Christine Lee, 30, said Merdeka Day is a day when they commemorate the sacrifices of the soldiers in defending our country.

“We are proud to be a part of Malaysia.”

Hyperactive Kylie, 5, was estatic to see the contingents marching into the hall. Her mother, Fan, said it was important to let her child know the importance of Merdeka Day.

“We live at Marina Court near here and every year we see the parade march by our home.

“This year my daughter told me she wanted to come so here we are.”

Also in attendance were Head of State Tun Datuk Seri Panglima Ahmadshah bin Abdullah and wife Toh Puan Datin Seri Panglima Dayang Masuyah Awang Jaapar, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Musa Aman, Deputy Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Yahya Hussin, ministers and deputy ministers.