JOHOR BAHRU, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- Cloud Seeding Operations (CSO) in Johor today focused specifically on two key areas: the stretch between Yong Peng (Batu Pahat) and Machap (Kluang), as well as the area from Mersing to Kota Tinggi.
State Health and Environment Committee chairman Ling Tian Soon said the operation aims to stimulate rainfall, thereby helping to reduce the concentration of haze particles in the air.
He noted that the operation utilised a Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) C-130 Hercules aircraft which departed from the Subang Air Force Base in Selangor carrying eight tonnes of sodium chloride (salt) as the cloud-seeding agent.
"Today, I had the opportunity to personally join the operation alongside the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM), and RMAF’s No. 20 Squadron also known as 'The Rainmaker' in our efforts to address the haze issue," he shared in a Facebook post today.
Ling remarked that participating in the flight provided a firsthand look at the efficiency, expertise, and commitment of the RMAF and MetMalaysia personnel in executing an operation that demands meticulous planning, inter-agency coordination, and specific weather conditions.
He added that the state government views the haze issue which can compromise air quality, public health, and the well-being of the people with great seriousness; consequently, the state government will continue to strengthen its collaboration with federal agencies to manage the situation.
"My deepest appreciation goes to METMalaysia, NADMA, CAAM, and all personnel of the RMAF’s No. 20 Squadron for their cooperation, commitment, and dedication in planning, coordinating, and successfully executing this 61st mission," he said.
Seven areas in Johor recorded 'unhealthy' Air Pollutant Index (API) readings, with Larkin registering the highest reading of 159 as of 4:00 PM today.
-- BERNAMA