“He was expected to be overseas” – Secretariat Explains Tun Mahathir’s Surprise Appearance At Merdeka Parade

Yesterday (31 August), Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad made an appearance at the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) celebration at Dataran Putrajaya.

Although he was not on the event’s official guest list, the former Prime Minister arrived in an electric wheelchair and was seen mingling with the crowd.

Clarification on the invitation procedures for the 2026 National Day Celebration

The Secretariat of the 2026 National Day Celebration has since issued a statement addressing the 101-year-old’s attendance, explaining that there are established procedures in place for managing invitations to the celebration.

“The Secretariat would like to clarify that, based on confirmation from the Ceremonial and International Conference Secretariat Division (BIUPA) of the Prime Minister’s Department, which manages invitations for major official Federal Government events, there are established procedures governing invitations for the National Day Celebration,” the statement read.

Citing the practice in place since 2018, Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Communications and Chairman of the 2026 National Day and Malaysia Day Celebration Working Committee, Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, said invitations to the National Day Celebration are not automatically extended to former prime ministers.

“However, the attendance of any former leader is not restricted and can be arranged through an application by the relevant party, in accordance with the established procedures for managing official invitations.”

Tun M was expected to travel overseas

At the same time, Abdul Halim said the Secretariat had also been informed by the Prime Minister’s Office that Dr Mahathir would be travelling overseas from 28 to 31 August 2026.

“The Secretariat was informed by the Prime Minister’s Office that Tun Dr Mahathir would be travelling overseas from 28 to 31 August 2026, based on an application for Overseas Rest Facilities that was received and approved by the Prime Minister, in accordance with the provisions on benefits for former prime ministers under the Members of Parliament (Remuneration) Act 1980 [Act 237].

“The Secretariat of the 2026 National Day Celebration appreciates everyone’s attention and understanding.”

What are your thoughts on this? Let us know down in the comments!

Also read: Tun Mahathir Makes First Public Outing After Fractured Hip, Grabs Coffee at KL Mall Amid Recovery