[UPDATED] Merdeka Day parade to proceed if clear skies remain

The Merdeka Day parade in Malaysia is set to take place on Monday, weather permitting, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil confirmed. A meeting involving several government departments yesterday decided that the event would proceed if clear skies continue into the day. Fahmi explained that authorities will monitor the situation and may consider cloud seeding, managed by the National Disaster Management Agency, should conditions warrant it.

The parade is expected to draw over 80,000 visitors, a number similar to last year's turnout. Health officials advise those with respiratory issues to wear masks, particularly N95 masks, during the event. Prasarana Malaysia Bhd is providing round-the-clock MRT services and feeder buses to the parade site, while hotels in the area are fully booked due to the school holidays.