Fahmi Fadzil says the 2026 National Day celebration at Dataran Putrajaya will proceed as planned on Aug 31, despite ongoing haze concerns.
PUTRAJAYA: The 2026 National Day celebrations at Dataran Putrajaya on Aug 31 will proceed as planned for now, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said.
The chairman of the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) Celebrations main committee said the decision was made at a special meeting with several agencies yesterday in view of the current haze situation at the venue.
“We have decided that if the haze situation remains as it is this morning, as was the case yesterday, we will proceed with the event on Monday (Aug 31),” he told a press conference after watching the full dress rehearsal for the celebrations here today.
Fahmi said the authorities would continue to assess the haze situation, including the possibility of cloud seeding.
“(Cloud seeding) will depend on whether there are clouds suitable for seeding. So, NADMA’s (National Disaster Management Agency) assessment will be conveyed to the committee.
“We hope cloud seeding can be carried out today or tomorrow, but everything is subject to the views and findings of the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia),” he said.
He said more than 80,000 visitors were expected this year, with the school holidays and the transport facilities provided by the organisers expected to contribute to the turnout.
“This year, Prasarana Malaysia Bhd is providing 24-hour MRT services, so it will make it easier for those who want to attend.
“We also have other modes of transport, including buses from MRT stations to the venue, as well as water taxis. With all these facilities in place, we expect a large turnout,” he said.
