Federal Territory Day – 1 February
Federal Territory Day is celebrated annually on February 1st in Malaysia to commemorate the establishment of the Federal Territories, which consist of three regions: Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
The celebration aims to recognize the unity, progress, and development of these rapidly growing areas in Malaysia.
Unlike other states, the Federal Territories are not governed by a state government. Instead, they fall under the jurisdiction of the federal government and are administered by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, Malaysia’s king.
History of Federal Territory Day
1. Kuala Lumpur
Kuala Lumpur became a Federal Territory on February 1st, 1974, following an agreement between the Selangor state government and the federal government.
The flag of Kuala Lumpur
The city was officially transferred by Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah Alhaj, the 8th Sultan of Selangor, to become Malaysia’s capital and main administrative center.
Transfer of Kuala Lumpur by Sultan Selangor. Credit image thepatriots.asia
Area: 243.65 km²
Population (2023): 1,998,600
2. Labuan
Labuan was declared a Federal Territory on April 16th, 1984, after being handed over by the Sabah state government to the federal government.
Flag of Labuan
Labuan has since been developed into an important offshore financial center and a key tourist destination.
It was designated a duty-free port in 1956 and an offshore financial hub in 1990.
Area: 91 km2
Population (2023): 99,500 peoples
3. Putrajaya
Putrajaya, the administrative center of the Malaysian government, became a Federal Territory on February 1st, 2001.
Flag of Putrajaya
It was developed to ease the administrative burden on Kuala Lumpur and is now home to most of Malaysia’s government offices, including the Prime Minister’s official residence.
Area: 49 km2
Population (2023): 119,200 peoples
Objectives of Federal Territory Day Celebration
The celebration of Federal Territory Day is aimed at appreciating the contributions of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya to Malaysia’s economic, social, and political development.
It also highlights their strategic importance to the nation. Additionally, the day allows residents to celebrate the achievements and progress of their respective territories.
Federal Territory Day Activities
Each year, various events and activities are organized to celebrate this occasion. Common events include:
Art and Cultural Performances:
Artistic and cultural performances, such as traditional dances, concerts, and art exhibitions, showcase the diversity of cultures within the Federal Territories.
Parades and Official Ceremonies:
The main events usually take place in Kuala Lumpur or Putrajaya, featuring parades, salutes, and the presentation of awards to individuals who have contributed to the territories’ growth.
Sports Competitions and Recreational Activities:
Sports competitions, such as football matches, cycling races, and marathons, are frequently held to engage the community.
Welfare and Community Programs:
Welfare programs, including charitable visits to care homes, donations to the less fortunate, and aid for those in need, are often part of the celebration.
Symbols and Themes of Federal Territory Day
Each year, Federal Territory Day is celebrated with a unique theme, often emphasizing unity, development, and the well-being of the people in Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya.
The Bunga Tanjung flower was chosen as the official symbol of the Federal Territories, representing beauty, strength, and resilience, which reflect the spirit of the people in these areas.
History of Federal Territory Day themes (2010-2024)
| Year | Theme |
|---|---|
| 2024 | Wilayah MADANI, Rakyat Harmoni |
| 2023 | Wilayah Persekutuan Maju dan Sejahtera |
| 2022 | Keluarga Malaysia |
| 2021 | Wilayah Persekutuan Wilayah Prihatin |
| 2020 | Sayangi Wilayahku |
| 2019 | Wilayah Peduli, Harapan Dipenuhi |
| 2018 | Wilayah Ceria Rakyat Sejahtera |
| 2017 | Wilayah Ceria Rakyat Sejahtera |
| 2016 | Wilayah Ceria Rakyat Sejahtera |
| 2015 | Wilayahku Ceria |
| 2014 | Wilayah Persekutuan Ceria |
| 2013 | Perpaduan Teras Kesejahteraan, 1Wilayah Persekutuan |
| 2012 | Rakyat Bersatu, Wilayah Persekutuan Maju |
| 2011 | 1Wilayah Persekutuan, Menjuarai Transformasi |
| 2010 | 1Wilayah Persekutuan, Maju dan Sejahtera |
Public Holiday
Federal Territory Day is a public holiday in all three territories—Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya. Residents take the opportunity to rest, attend celebrations, or participate in community activities.
Importance of the Federal Territories
- Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital and a major financial and commercial hub.
- Putrajaya: The federal administrative center, home to most government ministries and agencies.
- Labuan: A crucial offshore financial center and key player in the banking, investment, and oil and gas sectors.
In summary, Federal Territory Day is a time to honor the contributions of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya to the nation and to strengthen the bond between the people and authorities within the Federal Territories.n.
Image: https://ms.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wilayah_Persekutuan
Source: Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia
