Kuala lumpur: A farmer has reported a substantial estimated loss of RM20,000 after vegetable crops in Kampung Minda were severely damaged by the ongoing hot and dry weather affecting the region.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Sulaiman Ismail, 39, faced these losses as only a fraction of his vegetables, including long beans, chillies, okra, cucumbers, and water spinach, could be harvested from his 2.5-hectare farm. The hot weather has almost dried up nearby water sources, impacting the farm's irrigation system. During this period, Sulaiman is able to harvest only about 200 kilograms of vegetables daily, in stark contrast to nearly one metric tonne per day during other seasons. The quality of the vegetables has also declined, forcing him to sell them at lower market prices.

Sulaiman explained that his income is significantly affected, with sales this season amounting to approximately RM2,000 compared to the over RM20,000 he typically earns monthly in other seasons. He also noted that the hot weather has increased the susceptibility of crops to pest attacks, further hindering their growth and yield. The heat has led to a rise in pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and mites, which damage the vegetables.

Despite these challenges, Sulaiman is preparing to replant various vegetables for the new season, anticipating the upcoming Aidiladha celebration. Meanwhile, Kampung Minda Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) chairman, Mohamad Nordin Saman, mentioned that eight village residents engaged in small-scale vegetable farming for additional income have also been affected by the unsatisfactory yields due to the hot weather. However, he noted that the 36-hectare Paya Melong paddy cluster project remains largely unaffected owing to its efficient irrigation system.