Debut Appearance of Johor Military Force to Highlight 2026 National Day Celebrations, Says Fahmi

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 24 — The debut appearance of the Johor Military Force (JMF) will be among the main highlights of the 2026 National Day celebrations at Dataran Putrajaya, featuring expanded parade contingents, decorated vehicle displays, and upgraded public viewing areas.

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil stated that the JMF will take part with its assets alongside a 100-strong contingent as part of new additions to this year’s national celebration.

Speaking to reporters after observing a human graphics rehearsal today, Fahmi noted that military and police assets will no longer be stationed along the parade route as in previous years. Instead, they will be placed in a dedicated area at the New Millennium Monument, allowing members of the public to view them up close.

Also present at the rehearsal were Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching and Communications Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah.

Fahmi, who chairs the National Day and Malaysia Day (HKHM) 2026 Main Committee, reported that overall site preparations at Dataran Putrajaya have reached 70 per cent completion and are expected to rise to between 80 per cent and 90 per cent over the next few days. Final setup work is currently under way, including the installation of tiered seating structures and the Royal Box.

Highlighting the performances, Fahmi noted that 1,500 students from 36 schools across Selangor have commenced their venue rehearsals for the human graphics display.

“I can see that they are full of enthusiasm, and this is their first time at the venue,” Fahmi said. “We will look at several aspects to ensure their comfort and make sure they are fully prepared for the performance by next Monday.”

Addressing potential health concerns related to air quality and haze, Fahmi confirmed that standard operating procedures are being finalized in close coordination with the Malaysian Meteorological Department and the Ministry of Health.

“I instructed during last week’s main National Day celebration committee meeting that we must finalise the health-related protocols, and we will announce them in due course,” he said.

To support public transportation into the administrative capital, Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) services will run continuously for 24 hours on Aug 30 and 31. Visitors will also have access to a free water taxi service for the third consecutive year.

Additionally, event organizers will distribute promotional items and food supplies to participants and attendees throughout the celebration.

–NMT