Penang: The Penang Government is committed to implementing continuous flood mitigation measures in the state, particularly in Seberang Perai, to protect residents and property from disaster threats.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, State Infrastructure, Transport and Digital Committee chairman Zairil Khir Johari stated that since 2020, RM26.08 million has been allocated to the Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) through the Caruman Saliran Negeri (State Drainage Contribution) for various flood mitigation initiatives. The flood mitigation project in Taman Machang Bubok has been prioritized due to the frequent flooding in the area, which occurs up to eight times a year, affecting nearly 80 houses.

Zairil mentioned that the physical work for the project commenced on February 21, with a total cost of RM1.95 million. The project has achieved 10 percent progress and is expected to be completed by August 20 next year, taking a total of 18 months. He also noted that allocations were provided to other agencies, including the Penang Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) and the Penang Island City Council, to carry out relevant flood mitigation efforts.

Further, Zairil highlighted that the state government, through Penang DID, is implementing several flood mitigation projects in the Seberang Perai Tengah district. This includes the RM15.6 million Sungai Permatang Rawa project, which is 71 percent complete and expected to conclude by the end of 2026, benefiting approximately 1,000 residents in the affected areas.

Additionally, Zairil informed that the state government has applied to the Ministry of Economy to implement the Sungai Kilang Ubi Flood Mitigation Project at a cost of RM105 million. The project aims to address frequent flash floods around Sungai Kilang Ubi, enhancing flood protection and directly benefiting the local community.