PUTRAJAYA: A total of 15 heat-related cases have been reported so far this year, including three cases of heatstroke and one death involving a child left in a vehicle, said Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. According to him, infants and children, the elderly, chronic patients and individuals active in hot weather are among the groups at higher risk of heatstroke. The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has reported that hot weather conditions in Padang Terap, Kedah, have reached Level Two (heatwave), with daily maximum temperatures ranging between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius. According to the statement, a heatwave level refers to daily maximum temperatures between 37 and 40 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days, while the alert level refers to daily maximum temperatures between 35 and 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days. For the latest daily hot weather status, the public can refer to https://www.met.gov.my/iklim/status-cuaca-panas/.

Source: The Star March 23, 2026 10:30 UTC