Hari Merdeka; Malaysia; August 31; Commemorates Malaya’s attainment of independence from the U.K. on Aug. 31, 1957. Subsequently, the Federation of Malaysia was inaugurated on Sept. 16, 1963, containing Malaya, North Borneo, Sarawak, and Singapore. Singapore later withdrew. Hari Merdeka is celebrated nationwide with parades, exhibitions, and music.