Malaysia govt mulls over scaled-down or indoor National Day celebrations amid haze

PUTRAJAYA – The Malaysian government is considering whether to scale down or relocate the National Day celebrations this weekend as the haze continues to affect several parts of the country, said government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil.Fahmi, who is also the Communications Minister, said the Chief Secretary to the Government (KSN) will meet the relevant ministries and agencies on the evening of Aug 26 to assess weather projections and determine the necessary measures to ensure the safety and health of spectators and participants.“Tan Sri KSN will review the matter together with the Communications Ministry, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry, the Malaysian Meteorological Department, the Education and Health Ministry and others to assess, examine, and decide based on weather projections for the next five to six days,” he said.“This is also to protect the 1,500 secondary school students participating in human graphics performance from three states.”Fahmi, however, said that while no cancellations are expected, events may be relocated indoors, and indoor celebrations have also been recommended. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK