The 2026 National Day parade at Dataran Putrajaya will take place as scheduled on Aug 31, provided weather conditions remain safe and suitable for the event.
Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, who chairs the main committee for the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations, said the decision was reached following a special meeting with several agencies yesterday amid concerns over haze in the area.
He said authorities would continue monitoring conditions closely and assess the situation periodically, while contingency plans were being prepared should the weather deteriorate.
“Several contingency measures are being considered depending on forecasted conditions, including cloud seeding.
“If the weather condition on the day itself is not suitable, we will stop the event,” he said after attending the full rehearsal of the National Day parade at Dataran Putrajaya on Saturday (Aug 29).
Fahmi said cloud seeding could be conducted either on Saturday or Sunday (Aug 30), subject to findings and assessments by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia).
The move comes as several areas in Malaysia have experienced hazy conditions in recent days, prompting authorities to take additional precautions ahead of the large-scale celebration.
Fahmi also advised members of the public attending the event, particularly those considered at higher risk such as individuals with asthma or respiratory problems, to wear face masks in accordance with Health Ministry recommendations.
Medical teams will also be stationed at strategic locations around the venue to provide immediate assistance should any emergencies occur.
All parade participants have been provided with two pairs of face masks, although Fahmi said wearing them would remain a personal choice.
“We have also prepared two pairs of face masks for all parade participants.
“However, we are not forcing them (to wear a mask); it will be up to the individual participants. If they feel they need to wear (face masks), they can wear them,” he said.
More than 80,000 people are expected to attend this year’s National Day celebrations, with turnout potentially matching or exceeding figures recorded in previous years.
The ongoing school holidays and transport arrangements made by organisers are also expected to encourage more people to attend the celebrations.
Prasarana Malaysia Bhd will provide 24-hour MRT services, water taxis and feeder buses to help members of the public travel to and from Dataran Putrajaya.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring weather and air quality conditions closely before making any decision on whether adjustments to the National Day programme are necessary.
