Malia, Sasha Obama make rare public appearance at Obama Presidential Centre grand opening

Malia and Sasha Obama have largely stayed out of the public spotlight since their time in the White House, but on Thursday they made a rare appearance in their hometown, during the grand opening of Barack Obama presidential centre.

The former first l daughters, nearly a decade from the White House, appeared on stage alongside their parents at the star-studded grand opening of the sprawling South Side Chicago complex, which includes a museum, multiple concert and event venues, public park space, and a new branch of the Chicago Public Library.

Malia, 27, has pursued a career in the film industry and has made sporadic appearances on red carpets as she’s collaborated on projects with Donald Glover, including the Amazon Prime Show Swarm and her short film directorial debut, The Heart, starring Tunde Adebimpe.

The Obama daughters have largely avoided the public eye since their family left the White House, popping up on their parents' Instagram for birthdays and holidays.

They've only occasionally appeared at major events alongside their parents as Sasha, 25, did at the NBA All Star Game in February in Inglewood, Calif., at the home arena of the Los Angeles Clippers.

Barack, 64, posted a photo on Instagram of himself with Michelle, 62, and Sasha from the NBA All-Star Game for his youngest daughter’s 25th birthday last week.

“Happy birthday, Sasha! Can’t believe you’re 25 time really does fly. It’s been such a joy watching you become the woman you are today,” the former president wrote.

Obama reflects on past and looks ahead, in remarks during the opening ceremony of his presidential centre in Chicago, former President Barack Obama called on Americans to look to the future.

“We want to find a way to look toward each other again, not further away.” said the former president.

The opening ceremony was a star-studded event featuring musical performances from Christina Aguilera, John Legend, Jennifer Hudson and Eddie Vedder.Other celeb attendees included Bill and Hilary Clinton, Stephen Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey, Gayle King and Tom Hanks.

The Obama Presidential Centre will serve as a dynamic, living hub designed to strengthen democracy, empower civic leaders, and revitalize communities.