Study: Malaysia is the ‘Wettest’ Country in Asia, Only 7 Other Nations Globally Have Higher Rates

Earlier, we shared how continuous downpour has resulted in flash floods across Perak, with a total of 2,171 individuals from 759 families evacuated at temporary evacuation centres (PPS) as of 8 AM today.

Meanwhile, experts have advised Malaysians to brace themselves for heavier rainfalls until the end of the year as La Niña hits the country.

For illustration purposes

Malaysia has the highest average annual precipitation rates in Asia

With that in mind, did you know that Malaysia actually has one of the highest average annual precipitation rates in the world?

In fact, according to the latest data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), as published by the World Bank Group, Malaysia recorded 2,875mm per year average precipitation in depth, the highest in Asia!

For illustration purposes

Globally, only 7 other countries recorded higher annual average rates, with Colombia topping the list with a whopping 3,240mm per year average precipitation in depth.

In second place is São Tomé and Príncipe (3,200mm per year), followed by Papua New Guinea (3,142mm per year), Solomon Islands (3,028mm per year) and Panama (2,928mm per year).

The ‘wettest’ countries in the world 

Regionally, Brunei has the second-highest average annual precipitation rate in Southeast Asia behind Malaysia, with 2,722mm, followed by Indonesia in third (2,702 mm per year) and Singapore in fourth (2,497mm per year)

Here are the top 10 ‘wettest’ countries in the world as per the latest data:

1. Colombia
2. São Tomé and Príncipe
3. Papua New Guinea
4. Solomon Islands
5. Panama
6. Costa Rica
7. Samoa
8. Malaysia
9. Brunei Darussalam
10. Indonesia

For illustration purposes

So, what do you guys think of the countries on the list? Do share your thoughts with us in the comments. 

Also read: “Heavier rainfall, more flash floods & possible landslides” – La Nina to Hit Malaysia Until December 2025