Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia has allocated approximately RM3 billion for the Golok River Mouth Improvement Project, a strategic cross-border initiative with Thailand aimed at mitigating flood risks, safeguarding local communities, and enhancing national security. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof announced the allocation, highlighting the project's significance in addressing both environmental and security concerns.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the government, in collaboration with Thailand, has initiated comprehensive measures to ensure the project's success. Fadillah, who also serves as the Minister for Energy Transition and Water Transformation, stated that the total funding for the project, including the flood mitigation program and the security wall under the National Security Council (MKN), is estimated at approximately RM3 billion.
"We have informed the Thai government that Malaysia has approved a location for dredging works, while simultaneously undertaking improvements to Sungai Golok, including the construction of a river wall. This is not merely a flood mitigation initiative but also a security measure for our nation," Fadillah remarked. He emphasized that upon completion, the project is expected to significantly reduce flood incidents and their associated losses, benefiting not only the local population but also businesses and government infrastructure.
He further explained that while certain aspects of the project are pending final approval from Thai authorities, the estimated timeline for completion is three years from the start date. Additionally, Fadillah mentioned that Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) and the Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand (EGAT) have completed feasibility studies to upgrade existing power interconnection facilities between Malaysia and Thailand, recognizing the need for modernization.
"As Malaysia and Thailand continue to integrate more renewable energy into our grids, the reliability of our interconnection becomes even more critical," he noted. The interconnection upgrade is expected to facilitate more efficient and secure cross-border electricity exchanges, paving the way for future multilateral electricity trade under the ASEAN Power Grid (APG) initiative.
During his four-day working visit to Thailand, Fadillah expressed gratitude to the Thai government for their hospitality and discussed various government-to-government projects. He met with key Thai officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Jantararuangtong and Deputy Prime Minister Pirapan Salirathavibhaga, as well as Minister for Agriculture and Cooperatives Narumon Pinyosinwat.
Fadillah also attended a briefing session by Trans Thai-Malaysia (TTM) in Thailand, hosted by Petronas, to gain insights into the company's strategic direction. Additionally, he visited a water treatment and recycling facility in Chonburi to explore best practices in green innovation and efficient resource management. Engaging with the Malaysian diaspora in Thailand, Fadillah participated in a meet-and-greet dinner, which included a dialogue session, further strengthening bilateral ties.