{
  "id": 18098291,
  "title": "Deepavali traders brace for monsoon rains as celebrations approach",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/deepavali-traders-brace-for-monsoon-rains-as-celebrations-approach",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-04T09:22:03.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2026/11/1570738/deepavali-traders-brace-monsoon-rains-celebrations-approach"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Traders across several Malaysian states are taking precautions against heavy rainfall as they gear up for Deepavali celebrations this Sunday. In Negri Sembilan, the 10-day Deepavali Bazaar Carnival in Seremban is implementing regular drain cleaning to reduce the risk of flash floods. Carnival organisers have requested the Seremban City Council (MBS) and SWM Environment to carry out periodic maintenance, clearing debris from drains. Although the area is not typically flood-prone, regular maintenance is being conducted to clear rubbish, sand deposits, and dry leaves that could obstruct water flow.\n\nIn Perak, the Ipoh Little India Traders Association reported that the monsoon season has affected the income of over 80 traders along Jalan Lahat. Unpredictable rainfall might deter visitors, with some traders noting fewer buyers and lower earnings. They have called for improved drainage systems and a roof in the Little India area to prevent flash floods.\n\nPerak Gold Shops Association president Datuk Amaluddin Mohammed Ismail stated that visitors continue to visit gold and jewellery shops despite the rain. He noted that rainy weather makes it difficult for customers to park their vehicles due to crowded hawker tents.\n\nIn Johor, traders stock up on flour and cooking oil for Deepavali preparations, despite the risk of flash floods. Housewife M. Chitrani, who lives in Mersing, monitors weather forecasts and updates from MetMalaysia to ensure her family's preparations are not disrupted. The Penang Island City Council and Seberang Perai City Council have intensified maintenance efforts on drainage systems and flood control infrastructure to ensure safety and smooth business activities.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: Traders across several states are taking precautionary measures against unpredictable weather as they prepare for Deepavali celebrations this Sunday.",
  "key_points": [
    "Malaysian traders prepare for Deepavali amid monsoon rains.",
    "Drain cleaning implemented in Negri Sembilan to prevent flash floods.",
    "Perak traders report reduced income due to unpredictable rainfall."
  ],
  "editors_take": "Unpredictable monsoon weather forces festive merchants to prioritize flood prevention and infrastructure maintenance to protect their seasonal earnings and ensure customer access during the Deepavali celebrations.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}