A PROMPT investigation into the cause of last night’s debris flood in Bukit Tinggi, Bentong, would be conducted following claims it occurred due to illegal clearing works in the surrounding forest reserve, Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad said.

He said repairs to the infrastructure were underway, in addition to clearing rocks and sediment in the area, which would take about a month as large boulders need to be moved.

“Long-term mitigation measures have been proposed to tackle recurring problems, including the activation of the Bentong District Environmentally Friendly Drainage Master Plan in the disaster area,” he told media after the PKR Annual Congress at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre today.

Nik Nazmi visited Bukit Tinggi with Bentong MP Young Syefura Othman this morning to gauge the impact of the flood.

Earlier, the minister on Facebook said high water levels had caused an overflow, damaging vehicles and property.

“I will obtain a detailed report before looking at the best solutions. Waterfalls are closed to the public. People are advised to avoid camping sites on slopes and river banks during the rainy season for everyone’s safety,” he said. – Bernama, November 26, 2023.