KOTA BARU: More than RM1.5 billion has been approved for the Integrated River Basin Development Project (PLSB) in Sungai Golok to date.
Minister in Prime Minister's Department (economic affairs) Datuk Seri Mustapa Mohamed said the allocation was for the construction of two main phases of the project.
For Phase One, he said it involved an allocation of RM656 million and the project included the setting up of flood bunds and the construction of an outlet gate at Kuala Jambu.
He said the first phase of PLSB was expected to be completed by next year.
"Earlier, about RM465 million was approved for Phase Two of the project but the federal government decided to add another RM414 million, making the overall total cost for the project to come up to RM879 million.
"Phase Two includes the setting up of a floodwall and the construction of flood bunds. It is expected to be completed in 2028," he added.
Mustapa, who is also Jeli member of parliament, was speaking at a press conference after attending a meeting on the development projects in the state today.
He said the implementation of Phase One of PLSB Sungai Golok was excellent.
"As of June 14 this year, the project recorded about 56 per cent physical performance compared with its schedule of 34 per cent while the second phase is currently in the pre-implementation stage," he added.
Mustapa said the government hoped that the PLSB Sungai Golok project would solve flood problems faced by villagers along the river.
"This project is expected to benefit more than 40,000 villagers living in the affected areas," he added.