Putrajaya — Malaysia’s upcoming Malaysia Day celebrations on Sept. 16 are expected to be affected by deteriorating haze conditions in Kuching and Serian, prompting the cancellation of outdoor events, according to Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil. The Cabinet has taken note of the situation, leading to adjustments in the event format.
Despite the haze, the main Malaysia Day celebration will proceed as planned but will be held indoors at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on the evening of Sept. 16. Fahmi noted that the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry is prepared to conduct cloud seeding operations in Sarawak if conditions permit, depending on assessments by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). Although multiple cloud formations have been detected, wind patterns currently push these clouds toward the South China Sea, limiting immediate action.
The Cabinet was briefed on ongoing Malaysia Day preparations and the anticipated impact of the haze on outdoor activities during its latest meeting.
Separately, Fahmi commended the success of the National Day celebrations held at Dataran Putrajaya on Aug. 31. He reported that more than 100,000 people attended, with over 10,000 participants involved in the contingents and human graphics performances. The associated programs provided visitors with a unique and positive National Day experience.
Regarding the planned repatriation of Myanmar refugees, Fahmi assured that safety measures are in place. The Cabinet was informed by the Foreign Ministry that the 1,476 refugees who voluntarily agreed to return to Myanmar are expected to be safe and that the process is scheduled to begin by the end of September. This follows screening and coordination with the Myanmar Embassy, with a total of about 5,000 names forwarded from over 10,000 Myanmar nationals currently detained in Immigration Department custody. Fahmi responded to concerns about the security situation in Myanmar and noted that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is not involved in the repatriation operations.
On the issue of a recent claim that Malaysia intends to recruit 200,000 Bangladeshi workers, Fahmi clarified that this statement originated from a junior Bangladeshi minister and does not reflect the official position of the Bangladesh government. He confirmed discussions with Human Resources Minister Datuk Seri R. Ramanan, affirming that the Malaysian government distinguishes between individual officials’ remarks and formal government policy in handling such matters through appropriate diplomatic channels.