KOTA KINABALU, Sept 16 (Bernama) -- The 331 kilometer distance from Sandakan to the city center did not stop a married couple from driving up to join the Malaysia Day 2024 celebrations at Padang Merdeka here tonight. Anita Ahmad, 50, who had only watched the glorious event on television was determined to realize her and her husband's dream this year to witness the celebration in person to feel for themselves the experience of celebrating the 61st anniversary of the formation of Malaysia. Anita who works as a clerk described her and her husband's decision to celebrate Malaysia Day 2024 at the location of the event as a worthwhile experience although it meant travelling a long way because watching a variety of interesting performances such as the singing of patriotic songs, dance performances and firework displays that are also participated by a diverse community was worth the trip. 'I hope that the spirit of celebrating Malaysia Day will continue to last and move forward,' she told Bernama when met here to night. Meanwhile, e-hailing driver, Azizan Awang, 40, also said that in addition to having the experience of celebrating Malaysia Day 'live' for the first time, he and his family wanted to see the performance of guest artists such as Faizal Tahir, Stacy and Akim. In addition to Malaysians, the celebration was also enlivened by the presence of foreign tourists who also expressed their feelings of excitement to be able to witness the uniqueness of the pluralistic community celebrating the meaningful day. Chinese tourist, Xupeng Wang said this was his first experience of witnessing a celebration like this and was very happy to be able to experience it himself. 'Love the people, love the country, the vibes here is amazing,' he said. French tourist, Juliette Gourlouen, when met said the celebration that is happening today feels very special and had an impact on her heart. 'The people here are very nice and we are so excited to join together with the locals to celebrate this Malaysia Day,' she said.