DEPUTY Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change Minister Huang Tion Sii said the federal government has allocated RM57.2 million for Perlis to address its flood problems. 

Huang said the allocation was channelled under the High Priority Flood Mitigation Project that aims to tackle flood issues in high-risk areas nationwide starting this year until 2030, involving an allocation of RM11.8 billion as announced by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. 

“Besides that, the state Department of Drainage and Irrigation (DID) also received an allocation totalling RM127 million to implement three projects focussing not only on flood mitigation but also on dam restoration and river conservation for the well-being of Perlis people. 

“The allocation is under the First Rolling Plan to the Third Rolling Plan of the 12th Malaysia Plan,” he said in a speech officiating World Rivers Day at the DID floating market today. 

Also present were the ministry’s secretary general Rosli Isa and DID director-general Ahmad Anuar Othman.  

Huang said RM2.5 million was also allocated to carry out preparations for the north-east monsoon season and to reduce the impacts of flooding. 

He said all departments and agencies under the ministry have been directed to make early preparations for the transitional phase between monsoons. 

“Throughout Perlis, a total of 36 river water telemetry stations, 48 rainfall stations, and 12 flood warning siren stations have been installed. 

“The flood forecast model for the Sungai Perlis basin is operational and can forecast flooding up to seven days prior as well as give out flood warnings up to two days in advance,” he said. 

In another development, Huang said Sungai Perlis had been selected to be the venue of the World Rivers Day celebration, which is being held for the first time in the state. 

Various activities were held there including the sale of local products at the floating market, fishing and angling competitions, remote-controlled boat races, blood donation, and exhibitions by government departments, agencies, and local companies. – Bernama, September 24, 2023.