THE Ministry of Local Government Development has allocated RM20 million to local authorities for the maintenance of drains and drainage systems to prevent flash floods. 

Its minister, Nga Kor Ming, said since last month he had been calling all local authorities (PBT) to ensure the maintenance of all main drains ahead of the northeast monsoon season, expected to start in November. 

“We all know that the northeast monsoon is coming soon. Since last month, I have urged all 155 PBTs to immediately maintain the main drains to prevent flash floods in the cities,” he said at a press conference today. 

Nga said the maintenance works were currently underway and he was still awaiting the development report.  

“I would like to request that all instructions be issued to monitor the work of our contractors so that they carry out the work properly according to the periodic schedule that has been set under their respective contracts,” he said. 

Nga said he was confident officials involved in flood disaster management would monitor the situation in their respective areas. 

The Malaysian Meteorological Department had earlier forecast at least four to six episodes of heavy rain in the country from next month until February 2024, which could potentially result in flooding. – Bernama, October 30, 2023.