Over 3,300 tube wells activated in fire-prone areas amid dry season

New Straits Times

2 days ago

SHAH ALAM: The government has activated more than 3,300 tube wells in fire-prone areas as a precautionary measure amid extreme heat and prolonged dry weather during the ongoing Southwest Monsoon.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the Fire and Rescue Department has been instructed to clean and operate the wells where necessary, particularly in high-risk zones.
"These wells were prepared earlier and have now been made operational.
"I've directed the Fire and Rescue Department to carry out cleaning and fire prevention efforts, especially in areas prone to forest and peat fires during periods of high temperatures," he said at a press conference after attending a cloud seeding operation at the Subang Air Force Base.
Zahid, who is also the National Disaster Management Committee chairman, said swift operational responses have been coordinated through the department and local-level disaster management committees.
The Southwest Monsoon, which has brought lower rainfall and higher temperatures, is expected to continue until mid-October, with authorities remaining on alert throughout the period.
"Based on advice from Nadma and MetMalaysia, we are ensuring preparedness, particularly in areas experiencing extreme heat," Zahid said.
He added that the Health Ministry will issue public health advisories to help minimise exposure to the heatwave.
"Clear guidance should be provided to the public, especially regarding limiting outdoor activities.
"This is particularly important for schoolchildren," he said, adding that coordination has been made with district education offices to reschedule outdoor school activities.