Kuala Lumpur: The Central Disaster Management Committee (JPBP) has outlined preparedness measures to manage the impact of the Southwest Monsoon, which is anticipated to bring dry weather and an increased risk of open burning. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi indicated that, according to Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the monsoon began on May 10 and will continue until September, leading to drier conditions in Sarawak and several states in the Peninsula with fewer rainy days expected.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid, who also chairs the JPBP, stated that MetMalaysia forecasts a 20 to 40 percent reduction in rainfall this month for the north of the Peninsula and the west of Sarawak. Conversely, the south of the Peninsula and the west of Sarawak are expected to see a 20 to 40 percent increase in rainfall during August and September.
Ahmad Zahid highlighted the potential adverse effects of the prolonged dry weather, which include public health issues, water shortages, forest or bush fires, haze, and impacts on agricultural yields. He emphasized the importance of early action and coordinated efforts to mitigate these risks, following the JPBP No.1 Meeting for 2025.
The meeting, attended by state secretaries and representatives from technical and response agencies, underscored the need for strong coordination and precise information delivery. Ahmad Zahid assured that the Fire and Services Department (JBPM) is on high alert, with 24,052 personnel and logistics assets mobilized to address potential monsoon impacts.
As immediate measures, cloud seeding operations are recommended at the Malut Dam in Kedah to prevent it from reaching critical levels. The use of existing assets, such as tube wells and water pumps from the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, will be optimized for firefighting operations.
The JPBNs are instructed to enhance water supply operations and logistics support to affected areas. Ahmad Zahid reiterated the principle of ‘No One Left Behind’ in aid distribution to disaster victims. An improved Bantuan Wang Ihsan (BWI) initiative, developed with Bank Simpanan Nasional, aims to expedite aid payments starting with the 2024/2026 Northeast Monsoon season.
Ahmad Zahid concluded that the JPBP No.1 meeting for 2025 acknowledged the extensive preparations by government agencies to tackle the Southwest Monsoon and related challenges. He also advised the public to remain vigilant, limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and refrain from open burning.