Khazanah Research Institute, in a working paper, stated that the nation’s high temperatures and humidity makes Malaysians susceptible and vulnerable to heat related illnesses and can worsen existing health conditions in a person.

Heat is a critical and growing threat and the risks of heat stress can worsen during instances of high heat and high humidity, which can lead to heat related illnesses such as heat stroke, heat exhaustion and heat cramps.

During the 2015-2016 El Nino cycle, Malaysia reported over 200 cases of heat related illnesses, with two deaths, and during the 2023-2024 El Nino occurrence there were five deaths out of 127 reported cases of heat related illnesses.

Higher temperatures are known to adversely impact cardiometabolic, respiratory conditions and other Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) which puts a strain on healthcare resources since there are no proper climate-health policies in place.

Other concerns owing to rising temperatures is the rise in vector-borne diseases such as dengue, malaria and chikungunya and this is the reason why health care experts are urging the government to draw up appropriate policies.

All Malaysians are expected to experience warmer temperatures because of climate change and those susceptible are children and the elderly and those employed in particular industries who are vulnerable to heat related illnesses.

-THE MALAYSIA VOICE