Cloud Seeding Ready To Be Implemented, TUDM On Standby
KUCHING: Sarawak is ready to carry out cloud seeding operations to address declining water levels at hydroelectric dam areas, with the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) now prepared to be deployed when atmospheric conditions are suitable.
Sarawak Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said an application for cloud seeding had been submitted following a request from Sarawak Energy, while also taking into account the haze situation affecting the state.
“We have discussed this with METMalaysia. What we need is suitable atmospheric conditions because we cannot carry out cloud seeding without clouds.
“Once conditions allow, they will act,” he told the media after attending the Iban Women Charitable Trust (IWCT) 2025/2026 Craft Competition Prize Presentation Ceremony at Riverside Majestic Hotel here on Saturday.
He added that the TUDM was ready to be mobilised to enable the operation to be carried out should the situation become critical and weather conditions meet the requirements for cloud seeding.
Meanwhile, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah, who is also Sarawak Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) chairman, said the haze situation was showing positive developments, with Air Pollutant Index (API) readings continuing to decline.
However, he reminded the public to stop open burning activities to prevent larger fires and worsening haze conditions.
He said Divisional Disaster Management Committees (DDMCs) had also been instructed to remain vigilant over potential fire hotspot areas and take immediate action to prevent fires from spreading.
On transboundary haze, Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah said the issue would continue to be discussed through the ASEAN Coordinating Centre for Transboundary Haze Pollution, with Sarawak’s concerns being channelled to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) and the Department of Environment (DOE).
He said the Kuala Baram area, which is located near Brunei, was also being closely monitored as smoke from potential fires could affect the neighbouring country.
He added that existing mechanisms and agencies would continue to be utilised to seek solutions and reduce the impact of transboundary haze. -UKASnews
