The Muda Dam’s water level has plunged to a critical 8.04%, threatening paddy irrigation and forcing a review of the upcoming planting season.

ALOR SETAR: The water level at the Muda Dam in Sik has dropped to a critically low 8.04% of its capacity.

This equates to just 10,050 acre-feet of water as of today, raising serious concerns over irrigation supply for the vast Muda agricultural area.

Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) chairman Datuk Dr Ismail Salleh said the dam is crucial for collecting water before channelling it to Pedu Dam for irrigation.

“The issue is that after several months of drought, the water level at Muda Dam is at about eight per cent, which is extremely low,” he explained on TikTok.

He stated that combined levels at Muda, Pedu and Ahning dams now stand at about 39%.

At this level, any water release must be prioritised for domestic use at water treatment plants.

“This is serious as it directly affects supply, particularly for paddy irrigation,” Ismail added.

He said MADA will soon meet to decide on the upcoming 1/2026 planting season.

Current reservoir levels may not permit water releases for irrigation, making dry direct seeding the likely alternative.

“We have engaged farmers to brief them on the situation,” Ismail said.

The planting season is expected to begin within three weeks, and authorities are hoping for rainfall.

“Otherwise, we have no choice but to proceed with this method, as the schedule cannot be delayed further,” he noted.

Ismail said efforts including prayers for rain and cloud seeding have yet to yield results.

He urged all parties to continue efforts and prayers for much-needed rainfall.

According to MADA’s official website, Pedu Dam is at 39.89% capacity with 349,030 acre-feet.

Ahning Dam holds 121,089 acre-feet, which is 54.30% of its storage capacity.

 The Sun Malaysia