Federal Territory Day: Here’s why KL, Putrajaya & Labuan get an ‘extra’ public holiday every year

Local
31 Jan 2023 • 9:00 AM MYT
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Image from: Federal Territory Day: Here’s why KL, Putrajaya & Labuan get an ‘extra’ public holiday every year
Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur, & Labuan. Photos by Elliot Andrews, Esmonde Yong, and CEPhoto, Uwe Aranas

Most of us would know the 1st of February as a public holiday for KL, Putrajaya, & Labuan, commonly referred to as ‘Federal Territory Day.’

Then-Prime Minister Tun Abdul Razak officially declared this day in 1974 (for Kuala Lumpur). It marks the establishment of the federal territories, which serve as the administrative centres of the country.

Labuan joined KL to become the second FT on 16 April 1984, and Putrajaya became the third FT on 1 Feb 2001.

Today, Kuala Lumpur is the capital city, Labuan is a well-known offshore international business and financial centre, and Putrajaya serves as the administrative capital of the country. These federal territories are home to many government institutions, as well as iconic landmarks and cultural attractions.

So, how do we celebrate Federal Territory Day this year?

For those who work in the FTs, it’s a public holiday, so you can sit back and enjoy the day. Despite the indication that FT Day celebrations will be held moderately this year, here is one thing you can do to make the most of the public holiday – hit the malls, the parks, and the leisure spots all over town!

Really, we mean it. In conjunction with the Federal Territory Day celebrations, musical fountain shows in recreation parks, shopping malls and popular spots will be held for a month.

Image from: Federal Territory Day: Here’s why KL, Putrajaya & Labuan get an ‘extra’ public holiday every year
KLCC Lake Symphony Light and Sound Water Fountain show. Photo: SuriaKLCC.com.my

The mesmerising display begins from 8pm to 10pm at the following areas:

  • KLCC Lake Symphony Fountain
  • Crystal Fountain Pavilion Kuala Lumpur
  • The Gardens KL Fountain
  • River Of Life Blue Pool (Jalan Leboh Pasar Besar)
  • Putrajaya Lake Fountain in Precinct 2
  • Marlin Circle, Jalan Merdeka in Labuan

Plus, it’s free-of-charge, so it makes for an exciting day out for families, friends, and dates. Besides that, you could also visit iconic landmarks all over the FTs such as the Kuala Lumpur Tower or the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya, to give them a little boost in foot traffic.

All in all, Federal Territory Day is one to reflect on the three FTs joining hands to build Malaysia and their growth and development over the years. Let’s celebrate our diversity and successes together!