Melaka balances festive joy with water supply challenges amid heatwave
Melaka recently hosted a large Aidilfitri gathering in Ayer Limau, drawing over 10,000 attendees. Meanwhile, the state faces water supply concerns as hot weather persists and dam levels drop. Authorities are taking steps to ensure stability until at least April.
The Aidilfitri celebration in Ayer Limau saw Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam, Melaka's Yang Dipertua Negeri, and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh join the crowd. Guests enjoyed more than 30 types of food at the event.
Hot weather has reduced water levels in three key Melaka dams. The Durian Tunggal Dam now sits at 70 per cent capacity, the Jus Dam at 60 per cent, and the Asahan Dam at 90 per cent—down by 10 to 30 per cent overall. To counter shortages, water is being pumped from Sungai Gerisik in Johor to the Merlimau plant. Retention ponds have also been activated to redirect water to dams if needed. Despite the dry spell, the Malaysian Meteorological Department forecasts heavy rain soon in Melaka's water catchment areas. The current heatwave is expected to last until June, but officials confirm the state's supply will remain sufficient until April.
Melaka's water management efforts aim to secure reserves while balancing demand during the prolonged hot season. The recent Aidilfitri event highlighted community spirit, even as authorities monitor dam levels and rainfall forecasts.
