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THE Malaysian Meteorological Department reported in its latest update at 6am on Friday that parts of Kedah, Perlis and Perak are experiencing maximum daily temperatures between 37°C and 40°C for at least three consecutive days, meeting the threshold for a Level Two heatwave alert.
Among the worst-affected areas are Sik, Pendang, Pokok Sena, Kota Setar and Baling in Kedah, along with Hulu Perak and the state of Perlis.
The classification signals a more intense and sustained period of extreme heat compared with lower alert levels.
Several other districts remain under Level One alert, where temperatures have ranged between 35°C and 37°C over the same duration.
These include districts in Kedah such as Kota Baru, Kulim, Kuala Muda, Kubang Pasu and Padang Terap, as well as areas in Penang, Perak, Pahang and Johor.
MetMalaysia defines Level Three, or extreme heatwave conditions, as temperatures exceeding 40°C for at least three consecutive days, although no locations have yet reached this highest category.
Authorities have urged the public to take precautionary measures, including maintaining hydration, limiting prolonged outdoor exposure and remaining vigilant against heat-related illnesses as the hot spell persists.
Amid the rising temperatures, the Ministry of Education Malaysia said there would be no nationwide directive requiring students to bring water bottles to school, despite calls from advocacy groups.
Meanwhile, Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said decisions to safeguard school children on such measures should be left to individual schools.
“For technical matters like this, school heads can provide appropriate guidance based on their respective situations,” he said during a visit to a school in Perak.
He emphasised the importance of hydration under all conditions. “Whether during hot weather or not, drinking sufficient water is a basic necessity for everyone,” he said.
The statement followed a proposal by the Consumers Association of Penang, which urged the ministry to require students to carry plastic-free water bottles to cope with the heat.
Wong added that the ministry already has clear guidelines in place to safeguard students during periods of elevated temperatures.
“Temperatures below 35°C are considered normal. If temperatures exceed 35°C and reach up to 37°C for three consecutive days, it is categorised as a warning stage,” he said.
He further noted that if temperatures surpass 37°C for three consecutive days, MetMalaysia may declare a heatwave, prompting stricter precautions.
“At Level 1 heat alert, all outdoor activities involving students and teachers must be stopped. This includes sports events, cross-country runs, camping, drills, outdoor games and agricultural activities.
“If conditions worsen, school administrators are empowered to temporarily suspend school operations,” he said. - March 27, 2026
