Hot weather influenced by monsoon cycle, climate change, says expert

KOTA KINABALU (March 28): The current hot weather affecting Malaysia is part of the country’s normal monsoon cycle, though its intensity may be amplified by global factors such as climate change and ongoing atmospheric phenomena.

Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities senior lecturer Gs Dr Lindah Roziani Jamru said the heat is due to Malaysia approaching the end of the Northeast Monsoon and entering the inter-monsoon transition phase.

She explained that during this period, cloud cover and rainfall distribution decrease, leading to higher temperatures across most areas.

“Fundamentally, this is a normal occurrence within Malaysia’s monsoon cycle. However, the level of heat felt can be more pronounced due to additional factors such as global climate change and current atmospheric conditions,” she said in a statement.

She explained that global phenomena like El Niño play a significant role in influencing local weather patterns.

“El Niño typically brings hotter and drier conditions due to reduced rainfall, which in turn increases temperatures in Malaysia,” she said.

Lindah noted that a heatwave is only classified when temperatures exceed 37°C for at least three consecutive days.

Temperatures between 35°C and 37°C are considered cautionary, while readings above 40°C are categorised as extreme heatwaves.

On the long-term implications, she warned that prolonged hot weather could severely affect water resources, agriculture, and public health.

“Among the impacts are declining dam water levels, disruptions to agricultural output due to water shortages, and increased health risks such as dehydration, heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses,” she said.

Lindah stressed the importance of joint action between the government and the public in addressing extreme heat conditions.

At the government level, measures such as strengthening early warning systems, improving water resource management and intensifying public awareness campaigns should be prioritised.

“At the same time, the public must also play their part by ensuring adequate water intake, reducing outdoor activities especially during midday, and using water and electricity prudently,” she said.

She also highlighted the role of geography education in raising awareness of weather and climate issues.

“It helps people understand the relationship between human activities and climate change, while encouraging more responsible actions towards the environment,” she said.