KUALA LUMPUR — Cloud seeding operations are being carried out in areas affected by severe haze, particularly locations recording Air Pollutant Index (API) readings above 150, as well as areas where water levels at dams are falling.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the operations were being conducted in collaboration with the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) and the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), Bernama reported.
He said the measure was necessary to help prevent potential disruptions to water supply during 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.
The operations come as air quality in several parts of Sarawak reached hazardous levels.
As at 12.30pm today, three areas in the state recorded hazardous API readings, according to the Department of Environment’s (DOE) Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS) portal.
The monitoring station at the Serian Police headquarters recorded an API reading of 412, followed by Samarahan at 332 and Kuching at 304.
Sri Aman, meanwhile, recorded a very unhealthy API reading of 228. – August 30, 2026