Haze: Penang may shelve Merdeka Day celebrations, says CM

Penang may postpone its outdoor Merdeka Day celebrations due to the current haze situation, according to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow. The Air Pollutant Index (API) readings have been in the moderate to unhealthy range, prompting concerns about the safety of the parade, scheduled for three days away. If the API reaches unhealthy or hazardous levels of 200 or above, the decision to cancel the outdoor festivities may become necessary, as Penang has never before had to do so since 1957.

The state lacks a large enough indoor facility to host the parade, with the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre being a potential alternative. Chow expressed concern over the lack of large indoor venues, stating that the Merdeka parade, a significant historical event, may need to be shelved if conditions persist. Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, a state executive councillor overseeing public health, advised residents to wear face masks when outdoors, but no advisory has been issued to prohibit outdoor activities.

Despite the hazy conditions, Chow opened the Penang Carbon Market Forum, emphasizing the importance of voluntary participation in carbon trading regulations to address climate change.