ANN/THE STRAIT TIMES – Malaysia is preparing for an emergency response on the increasing of heatwave after the temperature hits closer to 40 degrees Celsius (oC) where it claimed one casualty and threatened crop yields.
Almost half of Malaysian peninsular has witnessed an experiencing peaks of at least 35oC for three consecutive days, according to the latest data from the Meteorological Department, which expects the hot and dry season to last until mid-April.
The heatwave led to the death of a 22-year-old from heat stroke, heightened the risk of water shortage and caused severe loss of crop yields on farms.
Malaysia is employing drones to survey peatlands susceptible to catching fire, and monitoring dwindling water levels in dams, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said in an interview yesterday. The government will also look into ways to protect construction workers who toil for hours under the hot sun.
“For the most foreseeable events, we have the guidelines, systems and policies in place, but we constantly need to adjust them as the magnitude always changes,” said Nik Nazmi.
Climate change could further exacerbate the situation, he added. “I think it’s crucial that people realise that climate change is not some abstract doomsday or, you know, a hippie nightmare”, said Nik Nazmi. In the worst-case scenario, the government is prepared to close down schools and even businesses. Singapore is also reeling under the heat, with temperatures over 36 oC recorded in some parts of the country on March 24.
Some schools in the island-state eased uniform requirements because of the persistently high heat, according to notices sent to parents. As a long-term response to more frequent and severe heatwaves, the Malaysian authorities plan to invest in heat-resistant crops.
