FOR a few hours in Putrajaya, the country seemed to move to one rhythm.

Some 1,500 dancers and cultural performers from across the country came together at IOI City Mall Putrajaya recently for the Colours of Parade, turning the finale of the 12-day Citrawarna Speed Festival 2026 into a celebration of the traditions, communities and stories that make up the Malaysian experience.

From the Northern, Central, Southern and East Coast regions to Sabah and Sarawak, the parade brought together different forms of music, dance, costumes and artistic expression – each rooted in its own sense of place, yet sharing the same stage.

There were also performances representing the Orang Asli, Chinese, Indian, Sikh and Siamese communities, alongside Nusantara percussion and brass band performances.