Public told to avoid river activities during monsoon season
PUTRAJAYA: The public has been advised to postpone all water recreational activities, including bathing, swimming, picnicking and camping, at rivers, rapids, waterfalls and irrigation canals throughout the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon season.
The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department has warned the public to avoid all water activities, such as swimming, bathing, picnicking, and camping, in rivers, rapids, waterfalls, and irrigation canals throughout the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon season. Unpredictable weather and heavy rainfall may cause rapid water level rises, strong currents, and water surges, which pose significant safety risks.
The department emphasizes that water surges can happen suddenly, and people should not wait for currents to become strong before taking action. They must prioritize safety and life preservation. The public is advised to stay informed about weather changes, follow authorities' instructions, and take preventive measures to prevent accidents.
In case of an emergency, they should immediately contact the 999 emergency hotline and share the incident location with rescue teams. The department expresses condolences to the families of victims in a recent water surge incident at Sungai Pertak, Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor, where eight people were swept away and 26 others were rescued.
This incident highlights the grave safety risks associated with recreational activities in rivers and forest areas during unpredictable monsoon weather.
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