POKOK SENA: The high temperatures in the Pokok Sena district have caused a significant decrease in padi yields, ranging from 20% to 30% compared to the previous season. Mohd Farid Shafie, a padi field manager in Gulau, expressed that the scorching heat has adversely affected his harvest. The padi plants have become lightweight and dry due to the prolonged heatwave, leading to a reduced quality of rice grains.
Farid mentioned that many farmers in the area underestimated the impact of the extreme heat, with some even ceasing watering their fields for 20 days before the harvest. This sudden rise in temperature has hampered the growth of the padi plants, resulting in lower yields. The El Nino phenomenon has also contributed to the decline in harvest, affecting the overall production in the region.
Despite the challenges faced by farmers, Farid remains hopeful that with adequate water supply from the dams, they can recover in the following season. He emphasized the importance of following Mada’s planting schedule and being vigilant about weather forecasts to prevent further losses in the future.
Another farmer, Jamil Abdullah, echoed Farid’s sentiments, highlighting the necessity of hot weather for soil stabilization but not to the extent that it harms the padi yields. Jamil, who manages a significant portion of padi fields, noted a decrease in yield due to the current weather conditions. Diseases like blast and pest attacks have also impacted the fields, albeit being under control.
Aziz Mat, a veteran farmer in Kampung Balik Bukit, shared his losses as a result of the extreme heatwave. Only a portion of his fields produced satisfactory results, while the rest suffered from drought-induced damages. The total losses incurred are estimated to be around RM20,000, emphasizing the severity of the situation.
The meteorological data from MetMalaysia confirmed that Pokok Sena is experiencing a level two heatwave, with temperatures reaching 37 degrees Celsius. This level of heatwave indicates persistently high temperatures above 37 degrees Celsius for at least three consecutive days, impacting agricultural activities in the area.
As farmers prepare for replanting next month, there is a sense of uncertainty about the future yields amidst the ongoing heatwave. The community is counting on sustainable water management and support from authorities to mitigate the effects of the extreme weather conditions on their livelihoods.
The challenges faced by the farmers in Pokok Sena serve as a reminder of the vulnerability of agricultural activities to climate change and natural phenomena. It is essential for stakeholders to collaborate on implementing resilient strategies to safeguard the agricultural sector from such adversities in the long run.
Despite the setbacks, the resilience and determination of the farmers in Pokok Sena are evident as they navigate through the challenges posed by the heatwave. Their adaptability and perseverance reflect the spirit of the agricultural community in overcoming adversity and finding sustainable solutions for a more resilient future.
As the region continues to grapple with the effects of the heatwave, the collaboration between farmers, authorities, and relevant organizations becomes crucial in mitigating the impact on agricultural productivity and ensuring food security in the face of changing climatic conditions.
The situation in Pokok Sena serves as a microcosm of the larger global issues surrounding climate change and its implications on food production. By addressing the immediate challenges and building long-term resilience, stakeholders can work towards a more sustainable and secure future for agriculture in the region and beyond.
