KELANTAN’s Sultan Muhammad V has told the state government to prioritise establishing a comprehensive flood management mechanism as the state is often hit by the disaster. 

“I hope the state government can look into the need of constructing the Lebir Dam to complete the integrated basin project of Sungai Kelantan and Sungai Golok, which began five years ago,” he said.

The sultan was speaking at the Kelantan investiture ceremony held in conjunction with his 53rd birthday at Istana Balai Besar in Kota Baru today. 

Sultan Muhammad V also expressed hope that projects approved by caretaker prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob in September can be implemented in the near future, including the Pengkalan Kubor-Tak Bai bridge and Phase 3 of the East Coast Highway. 

He also expressed gratitude for high-impact projects in the state, such as the Kota Bharu-Kuala Krai Expressway, East Coast Rail Link project, and the upgrading of the Sultan Ismail Petra Airport. 

“This infrastructure can create effective communication network facilities to enhance the state’s competitiveness in terms of investment,” said the ruler. 

Caretaker environment and water minister Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man when met after the ceremony said the government will continue to focus on relevant projects to ensure areas that are often affected by floods can overcome the disaster immediately. 

“Among the projects we are currently implementing are the Sungai Golok Integrated River Basin Development Project, and improvements to the meteorological system, National Flood Forecasting and Warning Centre, and Irrigation and Drainage Department. 

“The government is always committed to helping the people, especially in areas at risk, and focusing on major flood-related projects for the future of the country,” he said. – Bernama, November 12, 2022.