Malaysia must begin early preparations to mitigate the expected Super El Nino’s risks to health, water and agriculture, says the Alliance for a Safe Community
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must begin early and coordinated preparations to mitigate the impact of the expected Super El Nino, which could pose significant risks to public health, water security, agriculture and the environment if left unaddressed, said the Alliance for a Safe Community.
Its chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said forecasts that Malaysia could experience the phenomenon from around November this year, with conditions expected to peak between November and January 2027, should be treated as a serious warning for authorities and the public to strengthen preparedness.
He stressed that the situation should not trigger panic, but instead prompt early action to reduce potential risks arising from prolonged hot and dry conditions.
“Meteorological authorities have cautioned that the phenomenon could bring significantly higher temperatures, prolonged dry spells, reduced rainfall and an increased risk of haze, particularly after the monsoon season.
“The experience of previous El Nino episodes has shown that prolonged hot and dry weather can have far-reaching consequences, including water shortages, increased forest and peatland fires, transboundary haze, reduced agricultural yields, threats to food security, adverse health effects such as heat stress and dehydration, as well as disruption to economic activities,” he said in a statement today.
Lee said vulnerable groups, including senior citizens, young children, outdoor workers and those with chronic illnesses, would be among those most at risk during prolonged periods of extreme heat.
He said Malaysia should adopt a proactive, coordinated and whole-of-society approach to minimise the impact of the phenomenon.
Among the measures proposed were strengthening water resource management through prudent usage, reducing leakages, increasing storage capacity and preparing contingency plans for areas prone to water shortages.
Lee also called for intensified monitoring and enforcement to prevent open burning and forest or peatland fires, while ensuring rapid emergency response capabilities.
“Public health preparedness should be enhanced through timely heat advisories, the establishment of cooling centres where necessary and public education on preventing heat-related illnesses,” he added.
He also urged greater support for farmers through efficient irrigation systems, drought-resistant crops, technical assistance and financial aid to minimise losses, while ensuring uninterrupted electricity supply to meet increased demand for cooling during prolonged hot weather.
In addition, Lee stressed the need for wider public awareness campaigns on water conservation, fire prevention and personal health precautions, as well as stronger coordination among federal, state and local authorities to ensure emergency response plans can be activated promptly.
He said climate change was making extreme weather events more frequent and severe, and the expected Super El Nino should be viewed not merely as a seasonal phenomenon but as another reminder for Malaysia to strengthen its climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
“Preparedness is always more effective and less costly than responding to a crisis after it has occurred. With early planning and strong cooperation among government agencies, businesses, communities and the public, Malaysia can reduce the impact of the expected Super El Nino and better protect lives, livelihoods and the environment,” he said.
