10 best things to do for Merdeka 2025: Parades, fireworks, festivals and freebies!
Merdeka vibes are officially ON!
NUR ADNIN MAHALIM
Merdeka vibes are officially ON! On Aug 30 and 31, Malaysia turns 68 and the line-up of celebrations is looking bigger, louder and tastier than ever.
Whether you are in it for the parades, the food or the fireworks, here are ten fun ways to celebrate Independence Day this year.
1. Parade party in Putrajaya
The Putrajaya parade is the OG main event.
Picture 14,010 participants, military jets roaring overhead, tanks rolling through, the cute K9 dogs and flags waving like we all just won the World Cup.
It is huge, it is patriotic and it is the kind of thing that gives you goosebumps.
Pro tip: Roads shut super early, so hop on the free shuttles or even the water taxis (yes, legit water taxis) to skip the stress.
2. Snack your way through “Rasa Sayang Malaysia”
If your heart belongs to food, Rasa Sayang Malaysia at the Petronas Twin Towers Sky Lobby is where you need to be.
Imagine traditional kuih, cultural performances and kampung games, all with the KL skyline as your backdrop.
Tickets start at RM35, which is small money for a vibe this big. Just wear loose pants… trust.
3. Fireworks from KL Tower
KL Tower on Merdeka eve is the countdown spot.
For RM20, you will get live bands, party vibes and fireworks that light up the entire skyline at midnight.
The moment the first sparks hit the sky, everyone is screaming “Merdekaaa!” and your Insta story is instantly sorted.
4. Shop + Jam at Riuh Merdeka
Festival people, listen up: Riuh Merdeka is basically Malaysia’s own Coachella.
We are talking 30 hours of non-stop music, fashion, beauty pop-ups and food.
The line-up? Yuna, Misha Omar, Pop Shuvit - all free. Yup, zero ringgit.
Save your cash for snacks and shopping because trust, you will need it.
5. Central Market’s “Check-In Merdeka”
If you are feeling artsy, head to Central Market’s “Check-In Merdeka” between Aug 29 and Sept 1.
Expect craft stalls, pastries and nostalgic vibes that feel like you have walked into a Netflix montage.
No tickets needed, just vibes only.
6. Yoga, Bands & Concerts at KLCC Esplanade
KLCC Esplanade is doing the most on Aug 31.
Start your morning with a free yoga session (sign up first), then stick around for a brass band parade at 10.30am.
It is giving wholesome, it is giving energy, it is giving “yoga mat to marching band” in one morning.
Iconic.
7. Hunt the Travelling Pentarama Bus
The Pentarama HOHO bus is another wild card.
It is a travelling concert that cruises through Pavilion and River of Life before ending in Putrajaya.
Think of it like Grab, but instead of delivering food, it delivers fireworks, music and free stuff.
8. Freebies From Your Favourite Brands
Brands are in full patriotic mode:
- Milo – Champion Carnival Roadshow
From Aug 1 to Oct 10, Milo’s roadshow is rolling into towns nationwide. Expect fun family games, sporty challenges and (obviously) free Milo samples.
Bring your squad and hydrate like champs.
- Foodpanda – “Lebih Meriah Bersama” Campaign
From Aug 25 to Sept 28, Foodpanda is hitting the streets with free meals, parade perks, games and exclusive merch.
Bonus: you could even win a Proton X50 or foodpanda gift cards just by spending.
- Coolblog – Free Iced Teh Tarik
On Aug 31 only, just yell “I Love Malaysia” at the counter and the first 10,000 customers get a free 500ml Iced Teh Tarik.
Loud and proud = free drink.
- KFC – Free Fried Chicken
Spend RM45 or more using MyDebit or MoneyNow and redeem a free piece of chicken.
Comfort food + patriotic vibes = chef’s kiss.
- KyoChon – Rendang Chicken + Sticker Pack
All August long, dine in and try the limited rendang chicken special.
Bonus: snag a sticker pack collab with @secondfloorneko. Fried chicken x artsy stickers? Unexpectedly iconic.
- Chagee – Free Phone Grip
Starting Aug 1, order two Minty Gardenia Lemon Green Teas via the app or GrabFood and score a free phone grip.
Functional, aesthetic and very Gen Z-core.
So yes, you can wave the Jalur Gemilang and score free stuff. Win-win.
9. Selangor’s Big Night in Shah Alam
On Aug 30, Selangor is throwing its own Merdeka celebration at Dataran Kemerdekaan Shah Alam.
Expect a huge cultural showcase with traditional dances, music and theatre performances.
The flag-raising ceremony and fireworks finale will cap the night, creating the perfect patriotic mood as you head into Merdeka Day.
Bonus: local art exhibitions will also be happening nearby for those who want a creative touch to their night out.
10. Midnight Shopping Madness
And of course, no Merdeka is complete without sales.
Midnight madness is back at Pavilion, Suria and Mid Valley.
Online giants Shopee, Lazada and Zalora are slashing up to 70% off.
So yes, your cart is ready, your wallet is not.
Pro-tip: stack your vouchers and maybe do not fall asleep too early on Merdeka eve.
This Merdeka weekend is basically a buffet of vibes — parades, concerts, food, freebies, yoga, fireworks and discounts that slap.
So, plans sorted. Just get your Jalur Gemilang ready, stretch your makan pants and get ready to scream “Merdekaaa!” louder than the fireworks.
Download Sinar Daily application.Click Here!
