Government Urged To Provide Electricity Discounts Amid Ongoing Heatwave
TNB revealed electricity usage has spiked by up to 10% in certain areas of the country.
Parti Amanah Negara's (Amanah) Youth wing is urging the government to provide discounts on electricity bills to help families during the current heatwave, particularly those from low and middle income groups
In a recent statement, Amanah Youth deputy chief Ammar Atan emphasised the importance of implementing measures to alleviate the potential health risks posed by extreme heat, especially among vulnerable groups such as young children, as reported by FMT.
"I am confident Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and the government can consider this special electricity bill discount proposal. This mechanism can be implemented during each heatwave," Ammar said.To further drive home his point, he also mentioned the case of a 22-year-old man from Pahang who died from heatstroke, as well as the drought in Kelantan, which has led to a decrease in rice yield by 40,000 tonnes.
According to TNB, the heatwave has resulted in a surge of electricity usage nationwide, with some areas experiencing more than a 10% increase in January and February
TNB also revealed that northern states and regions in Peninsular Malaysia saw the biggest spike in energy consumption, with the highest readings of 19,200 MW in March.
"Domestic customers are likely to use more electricity to cool down during the start of the Level 1 heatwave following the weather alert issued in February by METMalaysia," it said.
Since 19 March, the Malaysian Meteorological Department (METMalaysia) has issued heatwave alerts in multiple states, with temperatures soaring between 37°C and 40°C
The forecast predicts prolonged dry spells and temperatures exceeding 35°C across most regions. However, the weather should cool down mid-month following heavy rain and thunderstorms.
In tandem with the relentless heat, reports have surfaced regarding critically low water reserves at several dams in Johor, Penang, and Kedah. This underscores the multifaceted impact of the heatwave, extending beyond electricity consumption to threaten crucial water resources.
To date, health authorities have recorded 28 cases of heat-related ailments as of 25 March, including 19 instances of heat exhaustion and nine cases of heat strokes
Children are one of the most vulnerable groups. Here's how to keep them safe during the heatwave:
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