31 August 1957 marks the day that the Federation of Malaya gained

its independence from British colonization, forming what we know of today

as Malaysia. Hence, 31 August is a National Public Holiday to
commemorate and celebrate the freedom and independence gained.
This day is also known as Hari Merdeka in the Malay language and
that is why the celebration of Independence Day is incomplete without the
seven shouts of Merdeka!. This gesture was initiated by the First Prime
Minister of Malaysia, Tunku Abdul Rahman back in 1957 at Dataran
Merdeka.
Although it is only a one day public holiday, the celebration builds up
from a month before right up to Malaysia Day which is on the 16th of
September.
During this whole month of August, also known as the Merdeka
month, you will see most Malaysians express their patriotism and love
towards their culturally unique country by raising the Malaysian flag on their
vehicles, balcony of their homes and even along the streets! It is also
during this time that government buildings all over Kuala Lumpur and most
shopping malls are hoisted with the Malaysian flag, Jalur Gemilang.
The whole build up towards Malaysias Independence Day is
celebrated with pride and joy where competitions and parades will be held;
sometimes school children practice for performances which will be
presented during Independence Day itself.
Every year there is a specific theme for Independence Day. Previous
years, the themes were Malaysia... Di Sini Lahirnya Sebuah Cinta,
Malaysiaku Berdaulat: Tanah Tumpahnya Darahku, Sehati Sejiwa and
etc. These themes will be reflected in the decorations and focus for
Independence Day that year.
In short, Independence Day serves as a reminder to all Malaysians to
appreciate the tough fight our ancestors had fought and to educate the
current generation about the spirit of Independence.