Flood mitigation projects

Flood is probably the only natural disaster in Malaysia. The country is not facing the drought or tornado. So it is natural that efforts are being made to mitigate the effects of the flood.

In the latest global seminar, Aware 2012, the minister announced the plan to implement rm880mil government projects relating to flood mitigation in the country. So far 32 projects are under way, but no details was given by him. Flood hazards maps are being prepared for the following locations:

- Muar

- Kulai

- Kinta

- Selangor

- Muda

- Other area in Kedah

- Pahang

It is noticeable the absence of Kelantan and Terengganu. We know that these two states are more prone to flooding, probably, to give the benefits of the doubt, they are included in the rm880mil project.

The minister also announced that the disaster and its risk elements are the key components in the integrated water resources management. He admitted that in the implementation of the policy ... "in the past has led to fragmented structures and uncoordinated development of management of water". Probably he is taking the challenge and the blame in the same breadth.

What surprise me is the issue of availability of clean and affordable drinking water was not a matter of concern.