By DayakDaily Team
SERDANG, Aug 30: Cloud seeding operations are being carried out in haze-affected areas, particularly those recording Air Pollutant Index (API) readings above 150, as well as in areas where dams are experiencing falling water levels.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the operations were being carried out in collaboration with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF).
He said the measure was necessary to prevent disruptions to water supply amid the current hot weather.
“This needs to be done because we know that water levels at many dams have been declining. Cloud seeding is being carried out in Putrajaya today, and will be conducted in Sarawak, Kedah, and Perlis from Sept 3 to 5.
“Cloud seeding is carried out not only according to need but also depending on weather conditions. Even when clouds are present, we need to monitor their movement to determine whether they are moving towards the targeted areas,” he told reporters after launching the Laman Usahawan Desa KKDW at the 2026 Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Show (MAHA) here today.
Earlier, Deputy Minister for Urban Planning, Land Administration and Environment Datuk Len Talif Salleh said Sarawak is considering cloud seeding in early September if the current haze situation persists.
Len said the proposed cloud seeding operation remained under consideration and would depend on how the haze situation developed.
He said cloud seeding would not only help reduce the haze but could also increase water storage in dams and reservoirs.
As of 1pm today, APIMS said the API reading in Serian has risen to 420, placing it in the hazardous level alongside Samarahan and Kuching, with readings of 337 and 308, respectively. — Bernama
