KUALA LUMPUR: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi advises Malaysians to be vigilant as the nation braces for hotter and drier conditions triggered by the El Niño phenomenon
“The statement issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) notes that the El Niño phenomenon would start influencing the country’s weather.
“Use water prudently, avoid open burning activities and prioritise your health and your family's, especially those who are more vulnerable to hot weather,” he said in a Facebook post on Monday (June 15).
According to MetMalaysia, the phenomenon is expected during the Southwest Monsoon season, which began on May 14 and is forecast to continue until September 2026.
Ahmad Zahid also advised the public to obtain the latest weather information through the myCuaca application and MetMalaysia’s official channels.
“The government will continue to monitor the situation closely and take the necessary measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the people remain a priority,” he added.
The prolonged dry conditions could reduce rainfall in several areas, increasing the risk of water shortages, forest and peatland fires, as well as haze episodes.
