The Melaka state government is preparing to conduct a cloud seeding operation to increase rainfall as water levels in key dams decline amid prolonged dry weather. The request, approved by the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), comes as forecasts indicate hot conditions and limited rainfall across the state until September. Authorities are also monitoring water reserves closely and implementing conservation measures to safeguard supply for the months ahead.
According to reports from Bernama, the operation is expected to take place within the week, subject to weather conditions and operational assessments by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) and the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM). These agencies are evaluating factors such as suitable flight windows and the presence of appropriate cloud formations before proceeding.
Cloud Seeding Planned as Water Reserves Decline
Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh said the state government had applied for the operation through NADMA as part of efforts to increase rainfall distribution and stabilise raw water reserves. The decision follows signs of declining dam levels and projections of sustained hot weather conditions over the coming months.
If dry conditions persist, authorities estimate that water stored at the Jus Dam and the Durian Tunggal Dam could last only until November. The situation has prompted state agencies to review contingency plans and ensure supply stability for households and businesses.
Monitoring Catchment Areas and Promoting Water Conservation
The state government has introduced several precautionary measures to maintain water availability. These include activating alternative ponds and supplementary storage sources across the state to reinforce existing supply capacity.
Authorities are also encouraging residents to adopt water conservation practices. Public awareness campaigns are being carried out to reduce wastage and ensure more controlled water usage while dry weather conditions persist.
Current monitoring shows that water levels at the Durian Tunggal Dam have decreased by 0.5 per cent, while the Jus Dam has recorded a 0.3 per cent decline. State officials continue to track conditions at water catchment areas that are particularly vulnerable to extended periods of low rainfall.
Possible Water Rationing if Conditions Worsen
While the government is taking steps to stabilise supply, officials have indicated that water rationing cannot be ruled out if reservoir levels fall to critical thresholds. Any such measures would depend on future rainfall patterns and the public’s adherence to conservation efforts.
Longer-term strategies are also under way to strengthen water management infrastructure. Malaysia has been exploring broader initiatives for sustainable water systems, such as the AIR2040 programme focused on smart and sustainable water solutions, which aims to modernise water resource planning and improve resilience against climate variability.
Jus Water Treatment Plant Expansion Nears Completion
In parallel with short-term measures, Melaka is expanding treatment capacity through the second phase of the Jus Water Treatment Plant project. The RM11.6 million initiative, developed by Syarikat Air Melaka Berhad (SAMB), began construction on 8 May last year and is scheduled for completion on 7 July.
Once operational, the facility will be capable of treating up to five million litres of water per day. The additional capacity is expected to support communities in the Jus area, including Kampung Bukit Senggeh and Kampung Orang Asli Jus, while reducing reliance on the Senandung B3 Tank and the Bertam Water Treatment Plant.
Officials view the upgrade as part of a longer-term approach to improving Melaka’s water distribution resilience and addressing recurring supply disruptions, particularly during periods of extended dry weather.
