February 1 is commemorated every year as Federal Territory Day in Malaysia to celebrate the establishment of the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan. This regional holiday has been observed since 1974 in honor of the formation of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur.
History of Federal Territory Day
Malaysia's modern history began in 1963 with the joining together of the former British colony of Singapore, the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, and the Federation of Malaya. At that time, Kuala Lumpur, the site of the Federal Territory Day (or Hari Wilayah Persekutuan) celebration, was still part of Selangor State. The Federal Territory Agreement, which was signed and ratified on January 28, 1974, marked the start of the Federal Territory Day observance. This agreement saw Selangor cede part of its land to allow for the creation of an independently governed region of Kuala Lumpur.
Federal Territory Day timeline
February has a special meaning for Malaysians, beyond its being Federal Territory Day. The nation was founded on February 1st, making it an important occasion of celebration and remembrance.
Federal Territories Day has been observed annually to celebrate and recognize the importance of the Agreement and the role of the Federal Territories in the country. It is a day when people reflect on the progress made since the Agreement was signed, and what needs to be done to ensure the continued development of the Federal Territories.
Putrajaya, Malaysia's third federal territory, was recently established after the Selangor state ceded land for its construction. This new federal territory will now be the official seat for the Malaysian government, relocating from Kuala Lumpur.
This is an occasion to celebrate the progress and prosperity of the Federal Territory since its inception, and to recognize the hard work and dedication of the citizens, government and businesses that have contributed to its success. During this event, activities and programs will be organized to bring the community together, foster a spirit of unity and create a sense of pride in the Federal Territory.
Federal Territory Day FAQs
What system of government does Malaysia operate?
Malaysia operates a hybrid system of government, which combines the principles of democracy, a parliamentary system, a constitutional monarchy, and the election of a monarch. The democratically elected government is headed by the Prime Minister, who is chosen from the majority party in the Parliament. The executive branch is led by the Prime Minister and their Cabinet, who are responsible for making and implementing policy. The Constitution also provides for the election of a monarch, who serves as a figurehead and ceremonial head of state. The Parliament is made up of elected representatives from the various states and territories, and is responsible for creating laws and budgets. The judicial branch is independent and has the power to interpret and enforce the laws of the land.
Is Malaysia a federal state?
Yes, Malaysia is a federal, constitutional, and elective monarchy; the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia. It is a federation of thirteen states, each with its own constitution, and the federal government is headed by a hereditary ruler known as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The Malaysian government is a system of shared power and authority between the federal and state governments, and the citizens of Malaysia elect their representatives to the federal and state legislatures. The Yang di-Pertuan Agong is the head of state, and the Prime Minister is the head of the federal government. This system ensures that the country is governed in accordance with the laws of the land and the will of its people.
When is Malaysia Day celebrated?
Malaysia Day is commemorated annually on September 16th, to recognize the founding of the Federation of Malaysia in 1963. This holiday celebrates the union of Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak and Singapore, which formed the Federation of Malaysia. The creation of the Federation marked the end of British colonial rule in the region, and established Malaysia as an independent nation.
How to Observe Federal Territory Day
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Read Malaysia’s history
Malaysia's modern history dates back to the formation of the Federation of Malaya in 1963, when the British colony of Singapore, and the East Malaysian states of Sabah and Sarawak, joined the existing state of Malaya. This union resulted in the establishment of Kuala Lumpur, now the capital of Malaysia, as part of Selangor state. To commemorate this event and to recognize the significance of the formation of the modern Malaysian state, the nation celebrates Federal Territory Day each year.
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Attend the parades
This is the perfect way to commemorate Hari Wilayah! All across Malaysia's three federal territories, festivities such as spectacular firework displays, joyous parades, captivating cultural exhibitions, and exciting performances are held to celebrate this special day. Best of all, these activities are open to the public with no cost of admission.
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Show support online
Show your enthusiasm and appreciation for Federal Territory Day on social media by posting selfies and expressing your thoughts about the holiday celebration. Include the hashtag #FederalTerritoryDay to join the conversation about this special event.
5 Things You Didn’t Know About Federal Territory Day
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It’s a regional holiday
Federal Territory Day is a regional holiday, commemorated mainly in three states of Malaysia: Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan. This special day is celebrated to recognize and honor the significance of the three Federal Territories and the establishment of the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur in 1974. Celebrations typically involve vibrant cultural performances, parades, and other activities that showcase the unique cultures of each of the Federal Territories.
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It’s mostly known as Hari Wilayah Persekutuan
The holiday celebrated in the Federal Territory of Malaysia is popularly referred to as Hari Wilayah Persekutuan by the residents of the country. It is a special day of observance that marks the establishment of the Federal Territory of Malaysia in 1974. This day is celebrated with great enthusiasm across the nation, as people get together to commemorate the creation of the Federal Territory. Common activities include parades and fireworks, as well as other festivities.
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13 states, three federal territories
Malaysia is made up of thirteen unique states and three federal territories, each of which boast a rich and vibrant culture. These states, situated along the Malay Peninsula, include Johor, Kedah, Kelantan, Malacca, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Penang, Perak, Perlis, Selangor, Terengganu, and Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. The three federal territories are Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
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The day doubles as an award ceremony
Hari Wilayah Persekutuan is a day of celebration that pays tribute to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation. It is a day to recognize and show appreciation to those who have gone above and beyond to make Malaysia a better place. This includes individuals from all walks of life, from political leaders, to scientists, to social activists, to teachers and more. It is also a day to reflect on the nation's progress and to look ahead to a brighter future.
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It is always honored with a holiday
If the holiday falls on a Saturday or Sunday, it is moved to the following Monday, and if it clashes with Chinese New Year, it may be moved to another day that week.
Why Federal Territory Day is Important
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It reminds us of our history
Malaysia is a nation with a deep and vibrant history that is often overlooked or forgotten. Taking time to reflect on our past can help us appreciate the progress we have made as a country. Celebrating Federal Territory Day is a great way to remember our shared history and to recognize the contributions of our ancestors to make Malaysia the country it is today. Through this event, we can be reminded of the richness of our culture and the diversity of our nation.
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It helps to create a lasting bond
By celebrating Federal Territory Day as a nation, we can foster a sense of unity and strengthen our bond as a diverse and multicultural nation. This special day brings together people from all backgrounds, providing an opportunity for us to celebrate our heritage, culture, and identity as Malaysians. Celebrating this day allows us to appreciate and recognize the contributions of the various ethnicities that make up our nation, and to remember the struggles and accomplishments of our forebears. It helps us recognize the importance of living together peacefully, and of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation. This day provides a perfect opportunity for us to come together to celebrate our nation's diversity and to reaffirm our commitment to unity and harmony.
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It recommits us to further growth
Hari Wilayah encourages us to contemplate our history, allowing us to look back on our successes and failures, and to gain insight into what worked and what didn't. By taking stock of the past, we can take ownership of our present and the decisions we make today. This can help us to establish positive goals and create a brighter future for ourselves, our families, and our community.
Federal Territory Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | February 1 | Wednesday |
| 2024 | February 1 | Thursday |
| 2025 | February 1 | Saturday |
| 2026 | February 1 | Sunday |
| 2027 | February 1 | Monday |
