Take proactive steps as prolonged dry spell could be on horizon, Warisan veep urges Sabah govt

KOTA KINABALU: The state government has been urged to take proactive measures amid scientific projections that Sabah could face a prolonged dry spell induced by the El Niño phenomenon. Parti Warisan vice-president Datuk Junz Wong said scientific projections indicate a high probability of a strong El Niño developing by mid-2026 and as such, the state has to act now to protect its agriculture sector. He warned that failure to prepare could lead to disruptions in food production, increased costs for farmers, and broader economic repercussions. Wong noted that Sabah is already grappling with water supply issues in districts like Kota Kinabalu, Penampang, Putatan, and Sandakan, which would be exacerbated by the drought. He called for strengthening water management systems, storage capacity, and supporting farmers with adaptive measures.