TRADERS in northern Malaysia are taking early steps to cope with a prolonged spell of hot weather, as rising temperatures and dry conditions begin to affect daily life and business operations across Perlis and Kedah.
Roadside vendors in Kangar have begun adjusting their routines and investing in protective measures to shield themselves from the sun, while ensuring their businesses can continue operating during the expected months-long heat.
Amisya Hishamudin, a 24-year-old coffee stall operator along Jalan Besar, said previous experience with extreme heat had prompted her to prepare more thoroughly this year.
“2024 was even hotter, to the point that my face felt painful after being exposed to the sun for too long. This year I need to be more careful.
“I’ve put up more banners to block the intense sunlight on the right side of my stall. Besides taking care of their health, traders also need to ensure they have sufficient water supply throughout their business hours,” she said.
Another trader, Idham Zamri, who runs a chicken rice stall, said he expects the hot conditions to persist for an extended period and is taking personal measures to cope.
“I will frequently splash water on my face to reduce the heat. If this continues, the hot weather could last up to six months,” he said.
According to the Malaysian Meteorological Department, Perlis is currently under a Level 1 (yellow) alert, indicating a state of caution, after recording maximum temperatures between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius for three consecutive days.
Nur Syafarina Shafi’e, director of the Perlis Meteorological Office, urged the public to take precautions as the inter-monsoon phase approaches.
She advised people to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities, avoid open burning and remain alert to changing weather conditions expected from the end of the month through May.
In neighbouring Kedah, conditions are more severe, with prolonged dry weather and no rainfall recorded for over a month, leading to steadily rising temperatures across much of the state.
Mansor Zakaria, chairman of the state housing, local government and health committee, said the district of Padang Terap has reached Level 2 heatwave status, with temperatures ranging between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius.
“The weather in Kedah is hotter compared to other states because we have not received any rain for more than a month. Therefore, I would like to advise the public to reduce outdoor activities, including visiting others during Aidilfitri or engaging in recreational activities.
“I am concerned that people may be exposed to high temperatures that could lead to heatstroke. Drink plenty of plain water to avoid dehydration and avoid sweet drinks as they can make you feel thirstier,” he said.
The meteorological department also reported that 14 areas across Peninsular Malaysia are currently under Level 1 alert, including several districts in Kedah such as Baling, Sik, Pendang, Pokok Sena, Kubang Pasu, Langkawi, Kuala Muda and Bandar Baharu.
Authorities have warned that the combination of high temperatures and dry conditions increases the risk of fires and water shortages. Mansor urged the public to avoid open burning and to use water resources prudently.
“Do not carry out uncontrolled open burning as dry weather can cause fires to spread rapidly. Water levels in rivers and reservoirs are also declining, so avoid wastage.
“Some areas are facing water shortages, so store enough water and use it according to necessity because when supply is disrupted, it affects daily life,” he said.
As the festive season coincides with intensifying heat, officials and traders alike are bracing for sustained high temperatures that could disrupt livelihoods and pose broader public health challenges. - March 23, 2026
