Jets soar over Putrajaya as air show steals spotlight at 69th National Day

THE skies over Putrajaya reverberated with the roar of aircraft engines today as tens of thousands of spectators were treated to a spectacular flypast marking Malaysia’s 69th National Day celebrations.

The aerial display, one of the highlights of the celebrations, featured assets from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM), Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) and Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM).

Among the aircraft taking part were Sukhoi SU-30MKM and Hawk fighter jets, A400M Atlas transport aircraft and several helicopters operated by the country’s security and rescue agencies.

The flypast was led by TUDM chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris, who personally piloted a Sukhoi SU-30MKM.

His appearance in the skies above Dataran Putrajaya drew loud cheers and applause from spectators gathered around the main stage.

Four Sukhoi SU-30MKM fighter jets performed a series of precise formations, showcasing the skill of TUDM pilots and the capabilities of the country's air combat assets.

The formation was further reinforced by four F/A-18D Hornets and two Hawk 208 fighter jets, which demonstrated the agility and combat capabilities of the air force.

The flypast also featured C-130H Hercules, A400M Atlas and CN235 transport aircraft, highlighting TUDM’s wide-ranging capabilities in both combat support and logistical operations.

Rotary-wing assets added to the spectacle, including the TUDM’s EC725 helicopter.

They were joined by an AW139 Maritime Operations Helicopter (HOM) operated by the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM), MD530G and AgustaWestland AW109 helicopters from the Malaysian Army Air Corps, as well as aircraft from JBPM and PDRM.

Spectators packed the area around Dataran Putrajaya, with many using their mobile phones to capture the flypast while cheering and applauding each time an aircraft passed over the main stage.

The carefully synchronised formations not only provided a visual spectacle but also demonstrated the readiness, operational capability and strength of Malaysia’s defence, security and emergency response assets.

The combined display symbolised the integrated cooperation among the country’s defence, enforcement and rescue agencies in safeguarding national sovereignty and public safety.

This year’s 69th National Day celebrations involve 10,819 participants, 328 assets and 112 service animals. - August 31, 2026