ABSTRACT
Because Malaysia is located in the humid tropics, most of the country receives abundant rainfall throughout the year. There is a true dry season only in the extreme northwest of the Peninsula. Most rivers are perennial (Uzir 1988, p. 158). Nevertheless, rainfall and river flows can vary substantially during the year even in wet areas. For example, rainfall is much heavier on the east coast of the Peninsula during the northeast monsoon (approximately October to January). Throughout the country, rainfall tends to occur in short, heavy showers. Given the country's relatively small size and the steep terrain of its interior, rivers tend to be short and swift. Hence, rainfall runs off into the sea quickly.
