According to the newest data from the Department of Meteorology, which predicts that the new and dry period will last until mid-April, almost half of Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula had temperatures above 35 degrees for 3 days in a row.
The country is using drones to survey peatlands susceptible to catching fire and monitor falling water levels in dams, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said in an interview on Monday.
The government may also consider ways to guard construction staff who toil for hours in the new sun.
“For the most predictable events, we have ready-made guidelines, systems and rules, but we have to constantly adapt them because their scale is always changing,” said Nik Nazmi.
‘We will face a water crisis’: Malaysia makes rain by seeding clouds
‘We will face a water crisis’: Malaysia makes rain by seeding clouds
“I think it’s incredibly important for people to realize that climate change is not some abstract doomsday or, you know, hippie nightmare,” Nik Nazmi said. In the worst case scenario, the federal government is able to close schools and even businesses.
I believe it’s incredibly vital for people to comprehend that climate change is not some abstract doomsday or, you understand, hippie nightmare
As a part of a long-term response to more frequent and severe heatwaves, Malaysian authorities plan to speculate in heat-resistant crops. “The heat has led to problems with the rice we import, which has put more pressure on us, so the agriculture ministry is seriously considering it,” Nik Nazmi said.
He added that the country is working with the UN climate bank, the Green Climate Fund, to organize a national adaptation plan to be implemented from 2026. This would transcend reducing emissions and would come with issues related to water security, agriculture, infrastructure and public health within the face of climate change .
