Kuala lumpur: Malaysia must begin early and coordinated preparations to mitigate the impact of the expected Super El Nino, which could pose significant risks to public health, water security, agriculture, and the environment if left unaddressed, said the Alliance for a Safe Community. Its chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye highlighted forecasts indicating that Malaysia could experience the phenomenon from around November this year, with conditions expected to peak between November and January 2027. He urged authorities and the public to strengthen preparedness, treating these forecasts as a serious warning.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, meteorological authorities have cautioned that the phenomenon could bring significantly higher temperatures, prolonged dry spells, reduced rainfall, and an increased risk of haze, particularly after the monsoon season. Previous El Nino episodes have shown that such conditions can lead to water shortages, increased forest and peatland fires, transboundary haze, reduced agricultural yields, threats to food security, adverse health effects like heat stress and dehydration, and disruptions to economic activities.
Lee emphasized that vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, young children, outdoor workers, and those with chronic illnesses, would be most at risk during prolonged periods of extreme heat. He advocated for a proactive, coordinated, and whole-of-society approach to minimize the impact of the phenomenon. Proposed measures include strengthening water resource management through prudent usage, reducing leakages, increasing storage capacity, and preparing contingency plans for areas prone to water shortages.
He also called for intensified monitoring and enforcement to prevent open burning and forest or peatland fires, while ensuring rapid emergency response capabilities. Public health preparedness should be enhanced through timely heat advisories, the establishment of cooling centers where necessary, and public education on preventing heat-related illnesses.
Lee urged greater support for farmers through efficient irrigation systems, drought-resistant crops, technical assistance, and financial aid to minimize losses, while ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to meet increased demand for cooling during prolonged hot weather. Additionally, he stressed the need for wider public awareness campaigns on water conservation, fire prevention, and personal health precautions, as well as stronger coordination among federal, state, and local authorities to ensure emergency response plans can be activated promptly.
He concluded by stating that climate change is making extreme weather events more frequent and severe, and the expected Super El Nino should be viewed not merely as a seasonal phenomenon but as a reminder for Malaysia to strengthen its climate resilience and disaster preparedness. Lee noted that preparedness is always more effective and less costly than responding to a crisis after it has occurred. With early planning and strong cooperation among government agencies, businesses, communities, and the public, Malaysia can reduce the impact of the expected Super El Nino and better protect lives, livelihoods, and the environment.