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Malaysia may scale back National Day celebrations due to haze

The government is reviewing plans for Independence Day festivities as haze conditions persist across the country. A decision is expected following consultations between senior officials and relevant agencies.

LSN Malaysia · 26 August 2026

Malaysia may scale back National Day celebrations due to haze

Malaysia's National Day commemorations could be significantly reduced in scale or relocated as persistent haze blankets parts of the country, according to government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil. The potential changes to celebration plans reflect ongoing concerns about air quality and public health during the festive period. Fahmi indicated that officials are actively assessing the situation and weighing contingency options. The Chief Secretary to the Government is scheduled to meet with relevant ministries and agencies this afternoon to discuss the matter and determine the appropriate course of action. Any final decisions regarding venue changes or modifications to the Independence Day programme are expected to be announced following these consultations. The move comes as haze, often attributed to transboundary pollution, continues to affect visibility and air quality across the region during peak celebration season.