Fahmi: Govt expects F1, KL Marathon and Le Tour de Langkawi to go ahead despite haze

PUTRAJAYA, Sept 30 — Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil has stated that the Malaysian government anticipates the Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix, the Le Tour de Langkawi, and the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon to take place this weekend, despite the haze plaguing various regions of the country. Fahmi emphasized that the Youth and Sports Ministry (KBS) would assess the situation daily, determining the feasibility of these events based on prevailing conditions.

During a press conference, Fahmi revealed that the Cabinet deliberated on the haze issue prior to the commencement of these major sporting events. Furthermore, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had raised concerns about the haze during his recent meeting with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Malaysia has also extended assistance to Indonesia by offering assets to aid in combating the fires responsible for the regional haze.

Fahmi expressed hope for a resolution to the haze issue, noting that there had been intermittent rainfall; however, the KBS would ultimately decide the fate of the events. Malaysia remains committed to addressing the haze matter through official channels, including the Foreign Ministry. The country is still awaiting a response to a diplomatic note sent through Wisma Putra pertaining to the haze issue.

The three sporting events, slated for this weekend, comprise the Formula One race at the Sepang International Circuit, various stages of the Le Tour de Langkawi across multiple states, and the Kuala Lumpur Standard Chartered Marathon. The haze has caused the air quality to deteriorate to unhealthy levels in numerous parts of the nation, prompting apprehension regarding the well-being of athletes, spectators, and event personnel participating in extended outdoor activities.