Independence Proclamation Day is observed in Malacca, Malaysia, every February 20. This regional holiday commemorates the first public announcement of the impending independence of the Federation of Malaya, made by Chief Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman in 1956 at Padan Pahlawan in Malacca. The day marks the anniversary of this significant event in Malaysia's history, which ultimately led to the country's independence on August 31, 1957. The holiday is unique to Malacca and is not celebrated in other Malaysian states. The Malacca Sultanate, founded by Parameswara in the early 1400s, is symbolically represented by the Malacca tree and mouse deer, which appear on the state's coat of arms. Other regional holidays in Malacca include the birthday of the governor and the anniversary of Malacca City being declared a historical city.