KUALA LUMPUR: Thunderstorms and rain are forecast for most states in Peninsular Malaysia, the east coast of Sabah and several areas in Sarawak on the first day of the Chinese New Year, according to the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia). Based on checks on MetMalaysia’s official website, thunderstorms are forecast in most coastal areas of Perak on Tuesday (Feb 17) morning, while rain is expected across the inland areas of Johor. "Rain is also forecast in several areas in Terengganu, Pahang, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negri Sembilan, Melaka, Kelantan and Selangor. In the afternoon, thunderstorms are forecast in Perak, inland Kedah and most areas in Penang, Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, Negri Sembilan, Melaka and Perlis. Thunderstorms are forecast over the inland and west coast areas of Sabah, including Tawau and Sandakan, while Kudat is expected to experience rain.

Source: The Star February 16, 2026 10:53 UTC