Mask up for Merdeka: National Day crowds urged to wear N95s amid haze

Putrajaya, Aug 29 — For the 2026 National Day celebrations, visitors to Dataran Putrajaya are urged to wear N95 masks to safeguard themselves from the impact of the ongoing haze. Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, who also chairs the main committee for the Malaysia Day (HKHM) 2026 events, echoed the Health Ministry's (MOH) recommendation, particularly for high-risk individuals.

The organizers have provided N95 masks to over 10,000 participants as a preventive measure, but they are not a mandatory requirement. Fahmi encouraged parents with young children, as well as those with asthma, to bring masks, specifically N95 masks. Medical teams from the Health Ministry are stationed at key locations to offer immediate assistance if required.

The rehearsal for the celebrations went smoothly, and a total of 823 media practitioners will be present, an increase from around 600 in the previous year. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) has installed additional communication equipment at 102 National Day celebration venues to facilitate seamless coverage.

As for security, the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM) has not reported any major issues so far, ensuring public order remains intact.