The ball-shaped delicacies were arranged in 68 trays, symbolising the number of years since Malaysia’s independence.

Padzluddin Hamid, president of Sekolah Kebangsaan Chalil’s parent-teacher association, said the unique creation was crafted by 60 volunteers – most of them parents of students – who worked tirelessly from midnight until 5am on Tuesday.

Onde-onde is made from glutinous rice flour, kneaded into a dough and shaped into balls, with palm sugar as the filling and coated in grated coconut.

“The kuih was chosen because it is a traditional delicacy that is easy to shape. The spirit of unity among residents was evident as the replica was made through collective effort,” Padzluddin said at the “Cetusan Jiwa, Semarak Merdeka” programme held at the school.

Participant Nur Sufiyyah Mohd Sukri, 29, said she was thrilled to take on the challenge despite having no prior experience in making onde-onde.

“I obtained help from my mother and siblings to make 560 red onde-onde. We stayed up until early morning to make sure we had enough.

“The hardest part was keeping the kuih uniform in size – some broke apart or didn’t turn out right,” she shared.

Another participant, Zazila Mat Yaacob, 45, said the activity not only added colour to the celebration but also nurtured a spirit of patriotism.

“Other activities were held today, including a bicycle-decorating contest, creative costume displays, and traditional kuih-making involving residents of all ages,” she said.

“Every year, the atmosphere here is very festive, and we are always happy to contribute to ensure the National Day celebrations here are a success.”