![](https://api.time.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/malaysia-national-day-2017-4835430515081216-2-2xa.gif?w=2400&quality=85)
Google celebrates Malaysia’s 60th National Day — a date known in Malay as Hari Merdeka, or the day of liberation — with a new doodle Thursday bearing the nation’s flag.
On Aug. 31, 1957, the Federation of Malaya, a group of states known today as Peninsular Malaysia, was granted independence from British colonial rule. Chants of “Merdeka!” — which means “freedom” in Malay — resounded in the capital Kuala Lumpur, as thousands gathered to see the new nation’s flag raised for the first time.
While the Malaysia of today, which counts other nearby states within its borders, was later formed in 1963, the date of independence remains a fundamentally important holiday for many. According to Google, Hari Merdeka, is typically a day of vibrant festivities as parades, military displays and proud anthems abound.
More Must-Reads from TIME
- Breaking Down the 2024 Election Calendar
- Heman Bekele Is TIME’s 2024 Kid of the Year
- The Reintroduction of Kamala Harris
- A Battle Over Fertility Law in China
- For the Love of Savoring Sandwiches : Column
- The 1 Heart-Health Habit You Should Start When You’re Young
- Cuddling Might Help You Get Better Sleep
- The 50 Best Romance Novels to Read Right Now
Contact us at letters@time.com