Looks like we’ll have to celebrate Merdeka from our homes this year.
The National Day parade is largely celebrated by all Malaysians.
Defence Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, announced that the National Day Parade held every 31st August will be cancelled this year due to the risk it poses on the spread of Covid-19 by encouraging the gathering of large crowds in close proximity.
“As of right now, it has been decided that there is to be no parade. We discussed that the parade should not go on as this event involves the gathering of thousands of people in large crowds,” said the minister today during a live press conference held in Putrajaya. Ismail Sabri also highlighted the difficulty in maintaining social distance if the parade were to take place.
The parade usually sees the gathering of thousands every year-not ideal for social distancing.
Nonetheless, it has yet to be decided whether other Merdeka or national day related programmes are allowed to take place within the parameters set by the SOPs. “For now, there is no permission granted for large scale celebrations or parades to take place,” emphasised the minister.
With regard to the other programmes that may be held, the Defence Minister said that Multimedia and Communications officer, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah, will release details and SOPs that should be followed in order for these events to be approved at a later date.
Do you guys agree with this decision? Let us know what you think!
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