Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ordered MetMalaysia to accelerate cloud seeding operations in states facing critical water levels, focusing on Kedah and Perlis, as of May 4 [1]. He highlighted the shortage of suitable aircraft for cloud seeding and proposed exploring drone technology to fill the gap. "I have instructed MetMalaysia to expedite its implementation, including exploring the use of drone technology and cooperation with various parties to address the shortage of suitable aircraft, to ensure the well-being of the people is protected," Anwar said [1].
On the same day, Anwar met with senior officials from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) to review policy planning and ministry priorities [1]. The meeting also focused on the welfare of three national elephants, Dara, Amoi, and Kelat, which are currently in Japan. Anwar emphasized the need for transparency and factual communication about the elephants' conditions. "Any decision and action must be based on facts and take into account the best welfare of Dara, Amoi and Kelat. Transparent and factual information must be continuously shared so that the public has a clear understanding of their condition there," he said [1].
In his address to the ministry managers, Anwar stressed the importance of good governance, strong integrity, and zero tolerance for corruption or leakages as essential for sustainable development. He said, "I stressed the importance of good governance, strong integrity and zero tolerance for leakages. These are the foundations of our efforts in building an inclusive, prosperous and sustainable Malaysia" [1].
MetMalaysia has been actively conducting cloud seeding to mitigate drought conditions in northern Malaysia. The instruction to prioritize Kedah and Perlis reflects critical water shortages in those states. The use of drones could offer a flexible alternative amid limited aircraft availability.
Further cloud seeding operations are expected to continue in the coming weeks as authorities monitor weather and water resource conditions closely [1].