PUTRAJAYA — The Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) has advised the public to suspend all water-related recreational activities, including swimming, bathing, picnicking and camping near rivers, rapids, waterfalls and irrigation canals throughout the 2026/2027 Northeast Monsoon season.
The advisory comes amid unpredictable weather conditions and reports of heavy and continuous rainfall in several areas, which could cause sudden rises in water levels, strong currents and kepala air (sudden torrents of water), posing serious safety risks and potentially resulting in loss of life.
JBPM also urged the public to remain alert to weather developments, comply with instructions from the authorities and take precautionary measures to prevent untoward incidents.
In the event of an emergency, members of the public should immediately contact the emergency hotline at 999 and provide rescuers with the exact location of the incident.
The department warned that kepala air could occur within seconds, urging people not to wait until currents become strong before taking action, and stressing that the protection of life must always remain the priority.
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JBPM also expressed its condolences to the families of victims involved in a kepala air incident at Sungai Pertak, Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor, on Nov 9.
In the incident, eight individuals were reportedly swept away by strong currents while engaging in recreational activities and hiking in the surrounding area.
Meanwhile, 26 individuals who were stranded near the incident site were successfully rescued by emergency response teams.
JBPM expressed its sympathy over the tragedy and hoped that the victims’ families would be given strength and perseverance in facing the ordeal.
The incident serves as another serious reminder of the safety risks associated with recreational activities near rivers and forest areas, particularly during unpredictable weather conditions throughout the monsoon season.
