The possibility of Malaysia experiencing a Super El Nino phenomenon from November should be taken seriously, with early preparations needed to minimise potential impacts, said Ikatan Komuniti Selamat chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said the phenomenon was expected to bring hotter-than-usual weather, prolonged dry spells, reduced rainfall and a higher risk of forest fires, peatland fires and haze.
Lee said previous El Nino events showed that the impact went beyond rising temperatures, as the phenomenon could affect water supply, agriculture, food security, public health, the environment and the country’s economy.
“Senior citizens, children, outdoor workers and individuals with chronic illnesses are among the groups most vulnerable to health problems caused by extreme heat,” he said in a statement.
He stressed that all parties should take proactive measures, including strengthening water resource management through conservation efforts, reducing non-revenue water (NRW) losses, increasing water storage capacity and preparing emergency plans for areas at risk of supply disruptions.
Lee also called for stricter monitoring and enforcement to prevent open burning as well as forest and peatland fires, which could worsen during prolonged dry conditions.
At the same time, he said the healthcare sector must be prepared by issuing early warnings on heat-related risks, expanding public awareness campaigns and ensuring medical facilities are ready to handle cases involving heatstroke and dehydration.
Earlier, reports stated that Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had instructed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) to immediately prepare mitigation measures ahead of the expected Super El Nino phenomenon.
The move is aimed at reducing the impact on national food production while protecting farming communities from possible losses.
Lee said the agricultural sector should also be supported through more efficient irrigation technology, the use of drought-resistant crop varieties and assistance for farmers affected by the extreme weather conditions.
He added that electricity supply must remain stable to cope with increased demand during periods of hot weather.
“Coordination between the Federal Government, state governments, local authorities, the private sector and the community must be strengthened to ensure action plans can be implemented quickly and effectively.
“Early preparation is always better than responding after a disaster occurs. With careful planning, cooperation and swift action, the country can reduce the effects of Super El Nino and protect the wellbeing of the people, economy and environment,” he said.
