Smooth National Day 2017 rehearsals despite rain

KUALA LUMPUR: The second rehearsal day for the National Day 2017 parade and show at Dataran Merdeka today went on smoothly despite the downcast weather and rain.
Director-general of the National Culture and Arts Department Tan Sri Norliza Rofli said although the rehearsal was started later than the scheduled 7am because of the rain, it did not dampen the patriotic spirit and cheerful attitude of the participants.
"The floor was slippery due to the rain, and we constantly reminded the participants to be careful," she told Bernama.
She said the full-dress rehearsal would be held tomorrow (Aug 27) and on Tuesday (Aug 29).
"This year, there are about 17,000 participants from various agencies and ages taking part in the parade," she said.

Norliza added that about 400,000 to 500,000 spectators are expected at the parade this year.
To add to the mood of the day, spectators are encouraged to wear the colours of the Jalur Gemilang which are red, white, and blue, she said. — Bernama