New: Tun Mahathir steals the show at the Merdeka 2026 celebrations

Former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad  surprised and delighted the public by choosing to celebrate the 2026 National Day (Merdeka) directly on the ground with ordinary citizens. Videos and photos of him sitting right in front of a barrier where the public was watching the ceremony went viral.

In fact, the 101-year-old statesman made a highly publicized appearance at the 69th National Day parade held at Dataran Putrajaya.

Key Details of Tun Mahathir’s Appearance

• Bypassing the VIP Seating: Instead of watching the national parade from the designated, shaded VIP viewing stands alongside other top government officials, Tun Mahathir chose to sit directly among the general public along the perimeter. 
• Braving the Weather: He chose to brave the intense morning sun to share the experience alongside regular festival-goers. 
• Electric Wheelchair: Having recovered from a serious hip fracture suffered during a fall earlier in January 2026, he navigated the crowds using an electric wheelchair while waving the Malaysian flag (Jalur Gemilang).
• Public Reaction: Rather than causing any negative disruption, his sudden presence on the ground was warmly received. Spectators and security personnel swarmed him to exchange greetings and take selfies.

The moment was live-streamed on his official TikTok account @chedetofficial and widely reshared by members of his family and the public, cementing it as one of the most talked-about highlights of the 2026 Merdeka parade.

Netizens expressed sympathy with Tun Mahathir while some queried why the legendary leader was not invited to sit among the VVIPs in the podium.

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