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Tourism Malaysia

STUNNING PUTRAJAYA BRIDGES TO SEE BY NIGHT

Dubbed the futuristic administrative capital of the country, Putrajaya is famous for its strategic town planning, striking architecture, the largest roundabout in the world (at 3.5 km in diameter), as well as scenic man-made lake. It is often regarded as a place for official functions and events.

Lately, though, Putrajaya, located 40 km away from Kuala Lumpur, is gaining popularity among those looking to escape the capital city. Its parks, wetlands, lakes, architecture and peaceful ambience is a magnet for those who love nature, photography enthusiasts, joggers, cyclists and those who indulge in water sport activities.

It is not uncommon to see tourists taking their selfies, or for graduation and wedding pictures to be taken against the beautiful backdrop of Putrajaya.

In addition, more and more events and activities are planned in this administrative capital such as the Royal Floria Putrajaya, which is a flower and garden show much-anticipated by all.

But we’ll let you in on a secret…Putrajaya is even more beautiful by night! The city is, of course, lit up by streetlights and lights from buildings. What’s more enchanting is the lights on several of the iconic bridges of the city.

Yes, the city itself consists of eight signature bridges, i.e. Putra, Seri Perdana, Seri Saujana, Seri Gemilang, Seri Wawasan, Seri Bakti, Seri Bestari and Seri Setia. These bridges are built to link various parts of the city separated by the sprawling network of lakes.

Most of the bridges are lit up in colourful LED lights and high-powered spotlights in the evenings and well into the night. They have become popular sites for wedding photo shoots, and sometimes, are the star of the photographs themselves. When foreign dignitaries are in town, or when it is a national holiday, the night-time ambience of Putrajaya is even more magical with creative and stunning play of lights.

Start your tour of Putrajaya after hours just before sunset. As the sun goes down on the horizon, you’ll be rewarded with a magnificent view: the brilliant rays from the sun cast shadows across the city and the reflections off the lake make the sight of these bridges even more romantic.

Let’s take a look at our top recommendations for Putrajaya bridges by night!

Putra Bridge

One of the main bridges in Putrajaya, the Putra Bridge is 435m long, connecting Precints 1 and 2. The upper level of the bridge forms part of the Boulevard, or the main street in the capital. Its design is inspired by the Islamic architecture of the famous Khaju Bridge in Isfahan, Iran. Its attractions include the four minaret- like piers complete with observation decks that overlook Lake Putrajaya.

Inspired by the design of the Khaju Bridge in Iran, Putra Bridge is the longest of the bridges in Putrajaya at 435 metres. It also makes up the focal point of Putrajaya together with the Putra Mosque in its dusky pink glory and the Putra Square, the hive of activity in Putrajaya.

The bridge connects Precinct 1 (Government Precinct) and Precinct 2 (Mixed Development) on the Core Island.  The upper level of the bridge forms part of the Persiaran Perdana (Boulevard). We like to take a sunset drive over the bridge to appreciate the arresting scene of the placid lake with the iconic dome of the Putra Mosque and its surrounds completing the picture.

A special feature of the bridge is its four octagonal towers and its wall of Islamic motifs. The towers are equipped with observation decks which overlook Lake Putrajaya.

Seri Wawasan Bridge 

This is one of the main bridges in Putrajaya, connecting Precint 2 to the residential area of Precint 8. The design of this cable-stayed bridge resembles a futuristic ship. Spanning 2.4km, this bridge can accommodate motorised traffic, bicycles and pedestrians. Highly visible even from afar, it has become one of the beautiful icons of Putrajaya.

The Seri Wawasan Bridge, meaning Bridge of Vision, is one of the most beautiful bridges, we feel, in Malaysia. It is the main link between Precincts 2 and 8, featuring a dual three-lane carriageway with a pedestrian walkway and cycling track at the sides.

The bridge spans a length of 240 metres across the Putrajaya Lake. Driving over it, this magnificent cable-styled bridge gives off a sense of strength and purpose. Its elegant lines draw inspiration from the beauty of a sailboat. At night, the whole look of the bridge is transformed with interesting and colorful light play. This much-photographed bridge has become an icon of Putrajaya, it can be easily spotted from various vantage points in the city, even from surrounding areas such as Cyberjaya.

Seri Gemilang Bridge

This ceremonial bridge connects the Heritage Square with the Putrajaya International Convention Centre. Spanning nearly 233m in lenght, the bridge is one of the most popular spots for photography in Putrajaya. The most dominant feature of the bridge is its four distinctive towers which are visible from a distance. Specially designed street lamps light up the bridge at night.

Seri Gemilang Bridge is a rather romantic bridge set in a quieter enclave of Putrajaya. It is a stunning double of Pont Alexandre III that spans the Seine River in Paris, France. As you cross this bridge, you can’t help but notice the intricate mouldings and detailed decorative works inspired by traditional Malay plants and floral motifs. Four main towers with four smaller entrance towers complete this 240-metre long bridge.

The view from this bridge is stunning and we recommend going at sunset to witness the changing colours of the sky reflected on the surface of the lake. You’ll enjoy a stroll on the pedestrian walkway of the bridge, or you can venture down the steps to get to the edge of the lake. From here, take a leisurely walk to explore the peaceful surroundings. 

Seri Saujana Bridge

This is another premier bridge in Putrajaya, connecting Precint 4 to Precint 7. This cable-stayed arch bridge has been designed to reflect a transparent, elegant and futuristic structure. With an overall single span of 3km, it is an awesome sight to behold, both day and night.

The Seri Saujana Bridge is one of the signature bridges of Putrajaya. It is the first bridge in the world to successfully combine two different engineering techniques, arch and cable stay. There is no other bridge structure like it in the world! Some have even compared it to the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Located at the southwest corner of the city, this 300-metre bridge connects Precinct 4 (Commercial Precinct) to Precinct 7. It serves as a grand entrance into Putrajaya for those entering the city from the south on the upgraded B15 road and Kuala Lumpur-Kuala Lumpur International Airport highway.

The night view of Seri Saujana Bridge is even more impressive with mood lighting to enhance the beautiful lines and architecture of the bridge. Like other bridges, it provides a pedestrian walkway and cycle track for public usage.

While the above are our top picks for Putrajaya bridges to visit at night, the administrative capital has four other notable bridges worth visiting as well to enjoy their beautiful architecture and admire the stunning engineering effort.

Seri Perdana Bridge

Located at the South-West of Precinct 1, this bridge connects the Government Precinct to Precincts 8, 9, and 10 across the Putrajaya Lake. Along the bridge are eight pavilions with arches and domed roofs, and these act as viewing decks for pedestrians to pause to take in the magnificent views of the lake.

Compared to the other bridges, the Seri Perdana is simple in design, yet remains elegant with its interesting tile-work in patterned hues of yellow. This continuous beam bridge is 372 metres long and was one of the first bridges to be completed in Putrajaya.

Seri Bakti Bridge

This simple beam bridge is located in the northeast of the city that connects Precinct 1 to the residential area of Precinct 16, which also houses the official residence of the Deputy Prime Minister.

The 270-metre long Seri Bakti Bridge offers a beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding area. Driving along this bridge towards the Government Precinct imparts a sense of purpose and ceremony because the road ahead leads to the Prime Minister’s office and department.

This bridge has dual two-lane carriageways that provide access for vehicles as well as pedestrians and cyclists. The tile work in Islamic motifs and the stylised streetlamps along the length of the bridge give it a unique identity.

Seri Bestari Bridge

The Seri Bestari Bridge lies at the northeast side of Putrajaya, connecting the Core Island to Taman Warisan Pertanian in Precinct 16. It is part of the direct route from the Deputy Prime Minister’s official residence to the Core Island.

This concrete arch system bridge spans 152.6 metres and has dual two-lane carriageways as well as a cycle track cum pedestrian walkway. The footpath bears a tropical theme with its palm trees and plants. Specially-designed lamp posts light up after dark with mood lighting to complete this stunning piece of architecture. 

Seri Setia Bridge

Located in the southeast part of the city, the Seri Setia Bridge spans 210 metres across the lake, bridging the commercial district of Precinct 4 to Precinct 19, a high-density residential area with full amenities and facilities.

The designers implemented simple design features to enhance the beauty and functionality of the bridge. For example, the tropical landscaping around the bridge not only serves as an aesthetic element but also protects motorists from the glare of headlights of oncoming traffic.

Another thoughtful design element is the dual three-lane road system constructed on the bridge in anticipation of the heavier traffic in the area. Other enhancements include the tapering of the “legs” supporting the bridge, creating the illusion of an arched hallway beneath the bridge, besides the reference to Islamic identity.

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Tourism Malaysia

A Journey Through Phantasmagoria Royal – Floria Putrajaya and Magic of the Night 2016

Royal Floria Putrajaya, Malaysia’s leading annual flower and garden festival, and Magic of the Night 2016 saw Putrajaya come to life among a sea of colour and vibrant lights.

Almost 740,000 people — the majority young families enjoying the first week of school holidays — attended the May 27 to June 4 event, with organisers aiming to showcase Putrajaya as the ‘City in a Garden’ or ‘City of Flowers’.

The theme for this year’s event was ‘Chrysanthemum’, with entrants unveiling a series of never-ending floral arrangements featuring carnations, spider lilies, roses and millions of chrysanthemums, which exploded in colour, interspersed with unique, locally created works of art.

Hundreds of creative exhibitions from government sector, corporations, schools, universities and independent artists were vying for 28 awards under four categories covering gardens, flowers, design and water-colour painting, with organisers commending the improvement in design concept, work standard and quality of planted materials from last year.

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For the second year running, DBKL was awarded the FLORIA Putrajaya Garden Cup Trophy for their elegant arrangement and design that again garnered the most attraction. During the awards ceremony, Royal Floria Putrajaya also entered the Malaysia Book of Records for the tallest glutinous rice exhibit. The 7.15m structure was erected jointly by Putrajaya Floria Sdn Bhd and the Putrajaya Community that operates the Heritage Village.

Other notable exhibits included the Chrysanthemum Garden and Candy Courtyard. These featured a mesh of natural arrangements interlaced with mechanical structures that gave a modern twist to your simple floral decoration.

Malaysia’s royal families also did not fail to impress with the Johor royal family presenting a beautiful replica of their palace and royal crown taking home the Gold Award for their display.

There was even a section designed to resemble the ancient Chinese royal court, which housed the Magic of Bonsai and Suiseki exhibit. These were living works of art, which had taken years of cultivation, pruning nurturing and sculpturing.

The Magical Garden, which housed the Mystical Forest and Mermaid’s World, was a unique combination of projected images employing holograms and the latest technology to create spectacular visuals and serene backdrops.

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List of highlights included:

  • Magical Garden featuring Mystical Forest and Mermaid’s World
  • Chrysanthemum Garden and Candy Courtyard
  • Floral Pavilion featuring the Tree of Life
  • The Magic of Bonsai and Suiseki
  • Terrarium: Magic In The Glass
  • Special Gardens
  • Government and Corporate Gardens
  • Gardens of Malaysia
  • Designer Gardens
  • School and University Gardens
  • Cat’s Pavilion
  • Arts and Crafts Bazaar
  • Horticulture Market and Garden Bazaar

The Magic of the Night 2016 was again undoubtedly the star attraction with thematic barges representing each Malaysian state in a beautiful, neon-lit parade wowing the masses.

Sabah entrant

The boats featured colourful lights and handcrafted three-dimensional designs of indigenous flora and fauna. The more creative and elaborate displays included traditional dancers as well. The Sabah float in particular was a standout promoting the region’s native rainforests, hornbills and orang-utans.

The boats were stationed on the Putrajaya Lake under the Putrajaya Bridge which was lit with multi-coloured flood lights and lasers. The evening ended with the nightly fireworks display.

Royal Floria Putrajaya flower and garden show and Magic of the Night 2016 was a spectacular event showcasing the many colours and personas of Malaysia. It is perfect for families, couples or just a peaceful night out. Be sure to check it out in 2017!

Head to http://www.floriaputrajaya.com.my/ for more information.

 

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Tourism Malaysia

Racing Over Putrajaya

Red Bull Air Race, the world’s fastest motorsport, makes its debut appearance in Malaysia before a captive crowd.




The bright yellow plane zoomed by, nimbly manoeuvring past 25-metre high Air Gates, a trail of smoke the only evidence of its flight path just seconds ago. Another plane followed, as one by one, all 12 Master Cup pilots of the 2014 Red Bull Air Race World Championship took turns demonstrating skills outside the league of ordinary aviators: vertical climbs, upside-down dives, side turns, fast corners, and the mad sprint to the finish line.

Small Planes, Big Ambitions
Man has always wanted to fly. We do so on borrowed wings – whether it’s in the passenger seat, or in direct manipulation of the controls. For the latter, only a few graduate to the level of those elite Red Bull Air Race pilots who wowed spectators with their ultra-precise, low-level, high-speed flying.

The weekend race on 17-18 May 2014 over the stunning 600-hectare Putrajaya Lake was historic for two reasons: It was the race’s inaugural run in Malaysia and east Asia, and the first time Malaysia fielded a representative via former Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) pilot Halim Othman, nicknamed Toogoo, who competed in the Challenger Cup.

Getting Up to Speed
While the Red Bull Air Race World Championship has been around since 2005, awareness of the sport is generally low amongst Malaysians. This is where a little knowledge of the facts and figures will go a long way in helping you better appreciate the sport.

With a top speed of approximately 370kph, the Red Bull Air Race World Championship is the fastest motorsport series in the world (Formula One cars race at speeds of up to 350kph). Unlike aerobatic flying and airshows, the focus here—as its name implies—is on racing. Pilots speed through a low-level aerial track marked out by inflatable Air Gates, gunning for the fastest time without incurring penalties such as flying too high above an Air Gate, or hitting a pylon, which would result in immediate disqualification.

At each venue, the top nine places earn World Championship points. The ultimate Red Bull Air Race World Champion will be the pilot with the most points at the end of the season.

Day 1: Smoke On
As the 12 Master Class pilots geared up for Day 1’s action, a morning shower may have cooled the searing heat, but not the competitive tension. The Masters’ training session went underway at about 1pm, followed by the Masters’ Qualifiers. At the close of Qualifying Day, favourite Hannes Arch of Austria led the Master Class pack with a time of 01:15.144, with Canada’s Pete McLeod in a distant second.

Day 1 also saw the next generation of Red Bull Air Race pilots take to the skies in the Challenger Cup, a new addition to the 2014 season. Although Datuk Halim Othman placed a commendable third in training, our local hero only managed sixth in the final Challenger Cup tally, which was won by Frenchman Francois Le Vot.

Racing Against the Clock
When races are won in microseconds (in the final leg of the 2010 race in New York, Nigel Lamb from Great Britain edged American Kirby Chambliss by 3/100ths of a second for the second spot), every move counts. One has to maintain extreme focus and precision, even when battling forces of up to 10G. Especially when battling forces of up to 10G.

To get an idea of what it’s like, imagine bench pressing a small car six times per minute while navigating through a course at speeds of 370kph. Each time you pull a high G, the blood from your head drains to your feet, leaving you on the verge of passing out. To avoid greyout, pilots contract their stomach and thigh muscles to restrict the blood going downwards. The mandatory G-Race suit helps reduce fatigue by enhancing compression using water-filled ‘fluid muscles’.

While physics takes its toll on pilots, there are other things to worry about, like heat and humidity, mind games, and picking the right strategy. After all, as we have learnt, shaving off even a few microseconds counts.

Day 2: Speed, Skill, Guts, Glory
Race Day. With a 60% chance of rain, the Putrajaya skyline was overcast again, but there was definitely more colour in the crowd which had swelled overnight. Around the Putrajaya Lake, families and aviation fans set up their viewing spots, or lounged comfortably on provided seating.

Above, the 12 Master Class pilots chased the clock. The six winners of the heats and the two fastest losers proceeded to the Super 8 round. An aerial intermission with aerobatic stunt planes took the edge off the air, thick with anticipation. Then it was down to the Final 4.

The first off the runway, Briton Nigel Lamb blazed the track with a time of 01:15.023, setting a new course record. Matt Hall of Australia was up next, posting a time of 01:15.597. Pete McLeod, who topped the Super 8, was next in line, but received a controversial DNF (Did Not Finish) for exceeding the 200-knot speed limit at the start gate. All eyes were then on Hannes Arch. As his silver plane zoomed past the finish line at 01:15.597, it was official: 56-year-old Nigel Lamb had won his first career title after 44 races, five second-place finishes, and seven years of racing.

French novelist Gustave Flaubert once wrote, “An infinity of passion can be contained within a minute.” While the passion that drives these pilots to the peak of their game may not be something easily discernible to the naked eye, especially from ground level, simply being able to witness live these gentlemen’s commitment to their sport is a privilege that Malaysians now have.

On his win, an emotional Lamb said, “I never thought I’d feel this emotion. It’s a great feeling. After seven years, and all the ups and downs, this is the payoff.”

Added Lamb, “Flying around Malaysia is amazing. The people are wonderful and the food is great. I knew it was going to be great here.”

We look forward to welcoming these soaring heroes to our shores again next year at the 2015 Red Bull Air Race World Championship.




Fast Facts

  • Red Bull Air Race World Championship is the fastest motorsport series in the world with a top speed of approximately 370kph. In actuality, the top speeds achievable by the race planes range from 425.97kph (230 knots) to 444kph (240 knots).
  • Red Bull Air Race World Championship is the fastest motorsport series in the world with a top speed of approximately 370kph. In actuality, the top speeds achievable by the race planes range from 425.97kph (230 knots) to 444kph (240 knots).
  • The average length of a Red Bull Air Race track is approximately 6km.
  • Starting this year, the engines, propellers and exhausts of planes have been standardised, thus levelling the playing field.
  • The pylons that form an Air Gate now stand at 25 metres high, 5 metres higher than in the 2010 Red Bull Air Race World Championship.
  • The top part of each pylon is made from spinnaker fabric – the same lightweight material used to make boat sails.
  • Pylons must rip apart instantly and easily if a plane touches them, yet be sturdy enough to remain stationery in all weather conditions, including stormy weather and strong winds.
  • In 2003, it took 20 minutes to repair an Air Gate. In 2010, the repair record was down to 90 seconds for a full repair.
  • All pilots of the Challenger Cup fly the same plane, the Extra 330 LX.
  • According to Breitling, the official timekeeper, time will be measured in thousandths of a second. There is also a photo-finish system which has a resolution of 1/10,000th of a second. That system will be used if two pilots have the exact same time at 1/1,000th of a second.
  • Born in 1984, Canadian Pete McLeod is the Red Bull Air Race Championship’s youngest pilot. And while Hungarian Peter Besenyei (nicknamed The Godfather) and Nigel Lamb share the same birth year (1956), Besenyei leads the other side of the scale by a few months.

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Wonderful Malaysia

International Tourism Night Floral Parade

The International Tourism Night Floral Parade (1MITNFP) is an annual signature event held in conjunction with the Putrajaya Floria Festival, Malaysia’s premier outdoor garden and floral showcase displaying the best of Malaysia’s and international landscape and horticulture industry, at Putrajaya Lake aimed to attract global tourists to the country by introducing and promoting the diversity and richness of the nature, culture and tradition of ASEAN and the Plus Three Countries. With the collaboration and cooperation among all the ASEAN Member State and the Plus Three Countries, promoting the region as a single unique tourism destination could maximize the region’s potential.

Some of you might wonder what is this night floral parade all about. You’re wrong if you think that it is an event where flowers are simply arranged around the park with a little signboard listing its generic and scientific name like those you see in the parks. There will be colorful lights. There will be fireworks. There will be boats. There will be dances. There will be songs. And of course, not forgetting the main characters, the beautiful and exotic flowers.

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There will be a theme to go along with the event – Magic of the Night – which is portrayed by the colorful lights that represent the vibrant floral species and designs as well as the multicultural facade of the ASEAN region. The breathtaking parade will make you hold your breath with its boats bursting with bright and colorful lights alongside its spectacular decorations depicting the exotic flora and fauna and icons representing each participant. To maximize its effect, the parade will only begin after sunset.

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Other than The Parade of the Night Floral Boats, there will be another component in this event – Static Night Floral Boats Display. Like the name suggests, all the participating boats will be in a static display after the floating parade for visitors and tourists to come closer and ogle at the designs and details of each floral boat before casting their poll which will have some weightage in the contest. Several categories are present in this contest – Overall Best Boat, Most Creative Boat, Best Lighted Boat and Most Popular Boat. Another weight-age in determining the winners is based on evaluation by panel judges appointed by the Ministries.

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Visitors are also entertained by other attractions at the 1MITNFP as there will be tourism related booths offering various tourism product and packages for the public, a photography contest of Night Floral Boats, fireworks display, performance by musical and cultural group, fun facilities and competitions. In 2011, this parade has attracted participation from 13 countries and organizations – Brunei, Cambodia, Melaka, Perlis, Terengganu, Perak, Johor, Putrajaya, Pahang, AirAsia, Sunway Group, I-Berhad and Tourism Malaysia.

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In 2012, an increase in the number of boats is seen. 15 boats converged on Putrajaya Lake which includes boats from the states of Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak and Terengganu, boats from government bodies – Putrajaya Corporation, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and tourism Malaysia, as well as first participation by international participants from Kenya and Suzhou, China.

The Night Floral Parade of 2013 – themed ‘Magic of the Night 2013: Colours of Harmony’ – takes place between 22 June and 30 June from 5pm – 11:30pm. For 9 consecutive nights visitors to Putrajaya will be captivated by the remarkable, stunning displays of lighted boats cruising for 3km along the Putrajaya lake. Location of the event is Putrajaya Lake, Presint 2, Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur.

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Tourism Malaysia

1Malaysia International Tourism Night Floral Parade

1Malaysia International Tourism Night Floral Parade

Floating gracefully along Putrajaya Lake, the decorated boats take on a life of their own…

This year, at the 1Malaysia International Tourism Night Floral Parade, visitors will be greeted by a splash of colours, bright lights and mesmerising decorative boats, set to take place from 30 June till 8 July.

A total of 15 boats will converge on Putrajaya Lake, representing popular tourism icons; will sail on for nine consecutive nights at Precinct 2, from 9.30 pm till 11.30 pm.

Themed, “Magic of the Night”, the boats are represented from the states of Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak and Terengganu. There will also be government bodies from Putrajaya Corporation, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) and Tourism Malaysia. The Ministry of Tourism will also have its own boat in the event, as well as first participation by time international participants from Kenya and Suzhuou, China.

Among the activities slated for the event include night floral boats photography contest, fireworks display, musical and cultural group performances, concert, Cuti-Cuti 1Malaysia Dance as well as the 1Malaysia Green and Clean Campaign.

This is the second time the event will be held, after last year’s successful event in Putrajaya, organised by Ministry of Tourism.

The event will be held in conjunction with the Putrajaya Floria 2012 at Putrajaya Lake. Putrajaya Floria is Malaysia’s premier outdoor garden and flower showcase.

With the theme, ‘Bougainvillea – Enduring Beauty’, FLORIA 2012 is set to showcase the biggest collection of Bougainvillea blooms, as well as exhibitors of landscape and horticulture, both locally and internationally.

Organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia, the annual 1MITNFP is held in conjunction with the Floria Putrajaya Festival, Malaysia’s premier outdoor garden and flower showcase, which displays the best of the local and international landscape and horticulture industry.

For more information on 1MITNFP 2012, please contact Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia at 03-8891 7000 or email info@motour.gov.my.

Caption: Images from last year’s event

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