Perak: Over 13,000 hectares of padi fields in the Seberang Perak Irrigation Scheme and Sungai Manik Irrigation Scheme are facing significant water supply challenges due to the ongoing hot weather. This situation is impacting areas within the Perak Tengah and Hilir Perak districts.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the affected padi fields cover an area of 13,356 hectares. The lack of rain and the persistent hot and dry weather have severely impacted padi growth. Khairul Azwan Harun, the Perak Menteri Besar's Special Officer in the Kampung Gajah state constituency, expressed concern over the situation and mentioned plans to address the issue. His party aims to collaborate with relevant authorities to find solutions that will alleviate the difficulties faced by approximately 5,561 padi farmers and ensure continued padi productivity.

Khairul Azwan Harun mentioned that he personally inspected the affected areas, which are part of the Seberang Perak Integrated Agricultural Development Area (IADA), a crucial padi granary for the country. He has sought assistance from the Perak Irrigation and Drainage Department (JPS) to enhance the water supply through additional water pumps.

Further, Khairul Azwan highlighted the financial burden on rice farmers due to diesel costs for operating water pumps provided by IADA and JPS. He has appealed to the government to cover these costs. Additionally, he called upon padi farmers and the general populace to engage in prayers for abundant rainfall as part of the efforts to address this crisis.

This situation follows a recent announcement by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), which reported a Level 2 heat wave in the entire state of Perlis, four districts in Kedah, and one district in Perak. Level 2 heat waves are characterized by daily maximum temperatures exceeding between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. Meanwhile, 13 other areas in Peninsular Malaysia have been placed on Level 1 alert, with temperatures ranging between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius over the same period.