Mada warns of irrigation threat as dam levels drop to 35pct
ALOR STAR: Water supply for padi cultivation in the Muda area is facing a major challenge in Season 2/2026, with water levels at the three dams under the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada) averaging just 35.76 per cent.
Water levels at three dams in the Muda area, managed by the Muda Agricultural Development Authority (Mada), have dropped to a concerning 35.76 percent, raising concerns about irrigation for padi cultivation in Season 2/2026. The dams, Pedu Dam at 36.99 percent, Ahning Dam at 44.33 percent, and Muda Dam at 11.88 percent, are struggling to meet the water demands.
MetMalaysia projects a high probability of El Nino, which could exacerbate the dry conditions and worsen the water scarcity. Mada's Water Supply and Padi Cultivation Committee has set the planting schedule for Season 2/2026, starting on September 23, with phases running until November 24. The 99,489-ha area is set for planting, while Season 1/2026 is nearing completion.
Mada urges farmers to conserve water resources and adhere to the planting schedule to ensure a sustainable padi production in the Muda area.
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