Perak: Water release at the four main dams in Perak is at a controlled level and is still able to meet domestic needs, despite several districts in the state recording Level One hot weather over the past few days.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak Infrastructure, Energy, Water and Public Transport Committee chairman Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin stated that the current water release at Temengor Dam, Bersia Dam, Chenderoh Dam, and Kenering Dam, which are fully supervised by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), is above the minimum level of around 120 cubic metres per second. During the dry season, water discharge is typically controlled to prioritize energy generation. However, a flexible approach is being adopted as several major agricultural areas in Perak have completed their planting season, allowing the surplus water to be utilized for domestic purposes, ensuring an adequate supply of treated water throughout the state.

Yesterday, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) reported that 12 areas on the West Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, including Hulu Perak, Kinta, and Kuala Kangsar, recorded daily maximum temperatures between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius. Mohammad Nizar emphasized that the state government has taken early preparation measures, including mobilizing machinery and assets from the Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS), to address the situation if the hot weather continues for an extended period.

He mentioned that if the hot weather persists for two to three weeks, the JPS's mobile pumps will be moved to the Perak Water Board (LAP) water treatment plant in the affected areas. This measure is intended to help meet the needs and ensure a smooth water supply. Apart from the mobile pump mobilization measure, cloud seeding may also be considered as a last resort. However, the final decision depends on MetMalaysia, and it requires a careful study of factors such as terrain, wind direction, and cost considerations.