KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 5 — The government needs an estimated RM392 billion to implement 365 flood mitigation plans (RTBs) across the country from 2023 to 2100, said Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof.
Fadillah, who is also energy transition and water transformation minister, said the amount was identified by the ministry through the Irrigation and Drainage Department’s research on major river basins as a non-structural approach, aimed to provide comprehensive flood planning and solutions.
“If we were to have that amount, there would be a year of no allocation for all ministries to resolve this issue.
“But the reality is that the government’s (financial) capacity is limited, which is why we are implementing (RTB) projects based on the priorities of the states and areas according to the studies,” he said during Ministers’ Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat today.
Fadillah said this in reply to V. Ganabatirau’s (PH-Klang) question about whether the government is satisfied with the development of RTBs and related investments over the years, and measures being taken to improve the country’s preparedness and response to flood disasters.
Fadillah said the government is satisfied with the projects that have been implemented, such as the SMART tunnel in Kuala Lumpur, which was completed in 2007 at a cost of RM1.97 billion.
He said over its 17 years of operation, the tunnel had been activated more than 600 times to divert floodwater, successfully reducing flood risk in the city.
He added that a 2012 study by the Irrigation and Drainage Department revealed that the diversion system prevented losses of over RM4.3 billion.
“The department has also updated and identified 4,619 flood hotspots across the country, and initial actions have been taken to carry out mitigation works such as drainage system maintenance, repairs, retrofitting, and so on.
“It also ensures the early warning system, involving 534 flood warning sirens along major rivers, is functioning properly,” he said.
As part of flood disaster response preparedness, Fadillah said every state and district Disaster Management Committee is required to coordinate early preparations through meetings, simulations and integrated drills, temporary relief centre arrangements and implementation of Public Communication, Education, and Awareness Programme.
“For post-flood coordination, it will cover cleaning assistance and post-disaster aid for victims.
“This includes financial aid and immediate repairs to infrastructure damage, as well as enhancing cooperation between the Disaster Management Committees in each state and district, along with non-governmental organisations and volunteers involved in aid coordination,” he added.
— Bernama
