NRES to propose drought action plan to National Disaster Management Council - Arthur

The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) plans to submit a proposal for a drought action plan to the National Disaster Management Council, according to Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup. The proposal aims to enhance preparedness for droughts, alongside existing plans for floods and haze. Arthur addressed a question from Datuk Mumtaz Md Nawi regarding government measures during severe droughts or El Nino events, including identifying high-risk areas and coordinating departmental efforts.

He forecasted that the strong El Nino phenomenon, expected to intensify from November 2026 to January 2027, could lead to drier conditions and temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius, particularly in the northern and interior parts of the Peninsula and several areas in Sabah and Sarawak. Reduced rainfall, especially between January and March 2027, is also anticipated, with potentially more severe impacts in the northern Peninsula and Sabah.

Regarding carbon tax implementation, Arthur emphasized the need for careful, staged execution once the relevant bills are passed and their frameworks are operational, taking into account industry readiness to ensure it does not hinder economic growth. He also highlighted the Asean Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution's lack of specific compensation mechanisms between countries, suggesting the exploration of alternative legal mechanisms for compensation and damages, contingent on international law compliance.

Additionally, Arthur called for a comprehensive study of the economic losses caused by haze, including its impact on public health, productivity, and economic activity, to inform policy decisions and subsequent actions. The government is also committed to strengthening enforcement cooperation through bilateral and ASEAN channels, including promoting the polluter pays principle.