ALOR SETAR: The current hot weather is offering a short-term benefit to padi farmers as it aligns with the harvest season.
But farmers say the prolonged heat could disrupt the upcoming padi planting season.
Shuib Ismail, 65, from Pokok Sena, said while the heat is manageable during harvest, the prolonged exposure could harm both farmers’ health and padi plants.
“Farmers typically seek shelter when the sun is at its peak around noon, resting for an hour before continuing work until 2pm or 3pm.
“A prolonged heatwave can jeopardise padi quality, as excessive heat often leads to pest infestations and diseases common during the dry season,” said Shuib, who has more than 30 years of experience in padi planting.
Another padi farmer, Abdul Kadir Ismail, 68, from Kuala Nerang, said besides pest infestations, rats and brown hoppers (bena perang) could pose serious problems.
“Brown hoppers thrive in warm and humid conditions, which promote their rapid reproduction.
“They can damage rice plants, significantly affecting both quality and yield,” he said.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department, while hot weather is expected until mid-March, the situation is not as severe as last year.
Temperatures may exceed 35°C in the early afternoon during this period.
Kedah health committee chairman Mejar (Rtd) Mansor Zakaria said the public is advised to avoid being outdoors during peak heat hours, or from 11am to 4pm.
He urged individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, muscle weakness, cramps, nausea or confusion.
Public health expert Dr Rahayu Hami from Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) warned that workers such as field labourers and padi farmers are at risk of heat exhaustion, heatstroke and dehydration.
“Stay hydrated and drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.
“Avoid caffeinated and sugary drinks, as they can lead to dehydration,” she said.
She also said these workers should take breaks every 30-45 minutes in the shade.
“Farmers should look out for signs of heat stress in each other.
“If someone feels dizzy or weak, get them to rest in the shade immediately,” she said.
USM family medicine specialist Dr Mastura Mohd Sopian said the public, especially students, should limit outdoor activities and avoid exercising in the heat.
“Wear comfortable clothing and apply sunscreen when outside,” she said.
In Penang, temperatures ranged from 25°C to 31°C, with the public advised to stay hydrated and prepared for sudden weather changes.
Yesterday, there were scattered thunderstorms in the morning, with conditions becoming more widespread in the afternoon and hitting a high near 32°C.
