Kuala Lumpur, March 25, 2026 — Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (KKM) has issued a public health advisory following a heat status report released by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) at 6:00 a.m. today, warning of prolonged hot weather affecting several regions nationwide.
According to the report, multiple areas are currently experiencing Level 1 Heat Alert (Be Alert), defined by daily maximum temperatures between 35°C and 37°C for at least three consecutive days. The affected regions include parts of Kedah (Langkawi, Kubang Pasu, Padang Terap, Sik, Kuala Muda, Kulim, and Bandar Baharu), Penang (North and Northeast districts), Perak (Hulu Perak, Selama, Kuala Kangsar, and Kinta), Pahang (Jerantut and Raub), and the entire state of Perlis.
Meanwhile, three districts in Kedah—Pokok Sena, Pendang, and Baling—have escalated to Level 2 Heat Alert (Heatwave), where daily maximum temperatures exceed 37°C up to 40°C for at least three consecutive days.
Health Risks Increasing
KKM warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat can pose serious health risks, ranging from mild symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, and nausea, to severe conditions like dehydration, confusion, loss of consciousness, and even coma.
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable, including children, the elderly, individuals with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, and those engaging in strenuous physical activities. These groups face a higher risk of severe heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke.
From January 1 to March 24, 2026, KKM recorded 15 cases of heat-related illnesses nationwide, comprising 11 cases of heat exhaustion, one case of heat cramps, and three cases of heat stroke. While most patients have recovered, one fatality was reported involving a child who died from heat stroke after being left unattended in a vehicle.
Preventive Measures Urged
In response, KKM is urging the public to take precautionary measures during the hot weather, including:
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11 a.m. to 4 p.m.)
- Drink at least eight glasses of plain water daily, even if not thirsty
- Limit intake of sugary, caffeinated, and carbonated beverages
- Ensure vulnerable groups, especially children and the elderly, stay well hydrated
- Watch for signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion
- Take frequent showers and wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Reduce strenuous physical activities
- Limit time spent outdoors and use protective gear like umbrellas or hats
- Use fans or air conditioning to stay cool
- Avoid staying in parked vehicles without ventilation
- Never leave children unattended in vehicles
- Check regularly on elderly individuals living alone
- Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms of heat-related illness occur
Call for Collective Action
KKM also called on government agencies, educational institutions, elderly care centers, and childcare facilities to implement recommended preventive measures to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.
The public can access the latest updates on heat conditions via the MetMalaysia website and health advisories through the Ministry of Health’s InfoSihat portal.
Authorities emphasize that vigilance and preventive action are critical to safeguarding public health during this period of extreme heat.
— Minutes MY / Igneseous
