On 31 August 1957, a new sovereign nation was born at the stroke of midnight - Persekutuan Tanah Melayu… the independent Federation of Malaya. The event was announced in one word which exploded from thousands of throats. As we celebrate the 52nd anniversary of Malaya’s independence from the British, let us remember this:  many of us have parents who are older than the nation!

On 31 August 1963, Muzium Negara was opened by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

On 31 August 1970, the five principles of the Rukunegara were launched.

On 31 August 1983, 9-year old student Kenneth Chin Hseng Kuang climbed the 7,174 feet-high Gunung Tahan in 5 and a half days. He was part of a team that included his father and six others. During that journey, they had walked 120 miles, and climbed 37 hills.

On 31 August 2003, the Monorail, costing RM1.18-billion was launched.