KUALA LUMPUR: Two of the 14 flood mitigation projects in the city to deal with the flash floods have been completed, the Dewan Rakyat was informed today.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa said another four projects are in the implementation stage and eight are in the tender analysis stage.
"We have completed seven flood mitigation projects in 2022 and 2023, while from 2025 to 2027, four more projects are being planned to enhance flood resilience in Kuala Lumpur.
"These are the long-term efforts aimed to address and mitigate the impacts of flooding in Kuala Lumpur, which serves not only as the main gateway to the country but also as the capital and a regional economic hub, especially as Malaysia is set to chair the Asean summits next year.
"As such, preparedness for floods, especially flash floods, is essential," she said in response to Onn Abu Bakar (PH-Batu Pahat).
Onn inquired about the state of readiness of Kuala Lumpur, the country's main gateway, for the 2025 Asean Chairmanship and the 2026 Visit Malaysia Year, given that the issue of flash floods has not yet been resolved and may affect the country's image and preparations for those events.
As a short-term measure in addressing flash floods, Dr Zaliha said the Kuala Lumpur City Hall has coordinated efforts to clean drainage systems, including drains and outlets in areas affected by floods.
This is to ensure that the drainage system operates at optimal capacity.
"Additionally, City Hall is continuing maintenance work on drainage systems such as open flood reservoirs and onsite stormwater detention (OSD) facilities. This includes the upkeep of rivers, main ditches and roadside drains, particularly during the northeast monsoon season. These maintenance activities are carried out in collaboration with various agencies and departments.
"In terms of medium-term strategies to address flash flood incidents in Kuala Lumpur, City Hall oversees 15 open flood reservoirs and nine underground detention basins.
"All reservoirs undergo desiltation as needed and according to a scheduled plan. Roadside drains are also being upgraded to help mitigate the impacts of flash floods."