Cloud seeding to target Sarawak haze and water shortages from Sept 3

Cloud-seeding operations will commence in Sarawak from September 3 to 5, as Malaysia intensifies efforts to combat hazardous haze and address water shortages. Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi revealed that the government will target eight areas in Sarawak, including the Batang Ai, Bakun, Murum, Bengoh, Gerugu, Assyakirin, Sika, and Matang dams.

Air pollution levels in certain parts of Sarawak have reached alarming heights, with the Air Pollutant Index (API) soaring to a hazardous 500. The National Disaster Management Agency, along with the Malaysian Meteorological Department and the Royal Malaysian Air Force, will conduct cloud seeding operations to redirect wind flows towards dangerously polluted areas.

Zahid, who presides over the National Disaster Management Committee, emphasized the urgency of coordinating with relevant agencies to support Sarawak, which is grappling with transboundary haze originating from Kalimantan. The government is also collaborating with the Sarawak administration, including Deputy Premier Douglas Uggah Embas, to closely monitor the situation.

Additionally, cloud-seeding operations will be carried out in Kedah (Pedu, Muda, Ahning, and Beris dams) and Perlis (Timah Tasoh Dam) to optimize rainfall and bolster water resources. These measures aim to mitigate the adverse impacts of the deteriorating environmental conditions.