Photos from the Final Rehearsal, Aug 29

August 29 - the final rehearsal. We have got to get everything right! Everyone was visibly excited and anxious at the same time.

It was a long day for everyone. Our performers started to arrive at the stadium before 3 pm, and waited until 8pm before they finally got into the arena for position runs. The full run finally began at 10 pm. On the grandstand watching the show were honourable PM Dato Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, the Minister of Culture, Arts and Heritage Dato Seri Utama Rais Yatim and other officials.

Overall, it was generally a successful rehearsal although some segments of the show still required finetuning. The PM was pleased with the preparation for the big day and everything is set for a fantastic night on August 31.

Our performers were truly fantastic in yesterday night's rehearsal. At the grandstand witnessing the performance, were hundreds of enthusiastic SGM members, who have travelled from all over the Klang valley to be at the stadium. Being part of the crowd myself, I can say for sure that it was truly a proud moment for SGM members as we cheered and applauded for our performers who have put on a spirited display! Bravo!

But hold it - don't open that bottle of champagne yet.

Let's put on an even better show on August 31 - giving our utmost - to make this 50th Merdeka 'giant' celebration a truly unforgettable night - one where we can all look back 50 years from now (for those of us who are still around) with pride and a sense of glory!

Malaysiaku Gemilang!

Yes, we hear you!

The arena was illuminated by colourful projection of photos and light patterns.

Here we go!

The night came to a close with a grand and colourful finale portraying the colours of Malaysia.