The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has highlighted the importance of adequate rainfall to sustain the growth of key agricultural commodities, including padi and oil palm. According to MetMalaysia, an optimal monthly rainfall of 200-300 millimeters is needed for padi, while oil palm requires between 150-200 millimeters to support healthy development.
MetMalaysia’s latest Agroclimatic Analysis and Outlook for August 2026 indicates that rainfall during the south-west monsoon tends to be lower and more irregular compared to other monsoon seasons. This pattern increases the risk of dry spells in certain areas, prompting a shift towards more efficient water resource management and drought mitigation strategies, especially in rain-fed agricultural zones.
“As the south-west monsoon progresses, irrigation planning focuses on ensuring sufficient water supply for crops, optimizing irrigation schedules, and maintaining soil moisture levels to sustain crop yields under drier conditions,” MetMalaysia explained.
The department’s rainfall forecast for August suggests that several regions, including Perak, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Johor, Kuala Terengganu, Rompin, Raub in Pahang, Kudat and Interior Division in Sabah, and Kuching, Samarahan, Sri Aman, and Betong divisions in Sarawak, will receive less than 150 millimeters of rain. This amount is likely inadequate to meet the water requirements for optimal padi and oil palm growth, particularly in areas with limited irrigation infrastructure.
Conversely, most other parts of the country are expected to receive rainfall totals sufficient to meet the minimum needs of these crops. Given these conditions, MetMalaysia emphasized the critical role of strategic irrigation planning and effective water management to support agricultural productivity during periods of lower rainfall.
The department’s outlook underscores the challenges posed by seasonal rainfall variability and the necessity for adaptive agricultural practices to mitigate potential impacts on key commodity production during the south-west monsoon season.