In light of the sweltering weather in recent weeks, dwindling water reserves across Malaysia, Wanita MCA urges all citizens to proactively address these critical yet exacerbating issues.

1. Reducing Water Consumption: With the alarming drop in raw water storage levels, particularly in the Muda and Bukit Merah dams, and with memories of the inconvenience and financial losses from the water rationing exercise imposed by the National Water Services Commission (SPAN), said Syarikat Bekalan Air Selangor (Syabas) just 10 years ago, it becomes even more pertinent for everyone to minimise water use.

Simple water saving practices such as fixing leaks, using water-efficient fixtures, not leaving the tap running while brushing teeth or in conversation with another person, and reducing water usage for non-essential activities such as hosing down the car driveway can reduce the volume of wasted water.

The Housing Development (Control And Licensing) Act, 1966 (Act 118) and state Enactments could be amended to compel property developers to in-build a rainwater harvesting system in all new development projects.

2. Staying Hydrated During the Heat Spell: The current Level 1 heat alert indicates temperatures between 35°C and 37°C, which can pose serious health risks. To stay safe, the public is encouraged to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if not feeling thirsty to keep hydrated.

Avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, wearing lightweight and light-coloured outfits, and using sunscreen are helpful. If symptoms of heat exhaustion show such as dizziness, heavy sweating, or nausea, seeking medical attention would be the wisest choice. If that is not immediately possible, then resting in a shaded area, hydrating with water might be a suitable alternative in the interim.

3. Reporting Open Burning: The presence of 652 fire hotspots is alarming and accentuates an urgent need to prevent open burning, which exacerbates the risk of fires and contributes to air pollution.

We plead with the public to not resort to open burning (which is illegal) and to report any such sightings to the local authorities promptly. Disposing cigarette butts appropriately rather than simply scattering them around as they could land on dry grass can help mitigate the risk of uncontrolled fires and protect our environment and health.

By taking these steps, we can collectively manage the current heatwave and water shortage more effectively. Public cooperation and vigilance are crucial in navigating these challenging conditions.

Tee Hooi Ling
Wanita MCA Deputy Chairperson

31 July 2024

-MCA Comm-