Malaysia prepares for National Day with market gains and high traffic forecasts

Bursa Malaysia opened higher on Friday, driven by buying interest ahead of the National Day celebrations. The FTSE Bursa Malaysia KLCI rose 1.73 points to 1,743.45 by 9:02 AM, with advancing counters outnumbering declining ones.

Apex Securities noted that while technology sentiment is improving, investors remain cautious due to ongoing corporate financial announcements and external uncertainties. Major stocks like Maybank and Public Bank saw gains, while CIMB Group and Tenaga Nasional experienced declines.

In related holiday preparations, PLUS Malaysia Berhad expects approximately 2.2 million vehicles to utilize its highway network during peak periods for National Day and school holidays. Traffic surges are anticipated between August 28–31 and September 4–7. To manage the volume, PLUS will activate Smart Lanes at 33 locations and increase personnel at toll plazas and rest areas.