KUALA LUMPUR: The majority of flash floods occurred due to issues with cleanliness, particularly clogged drains and blocked drainage systems.
Deputy Housing and Local Government Minister Datuk Aiman Athirah Sabu said this issue requires public awareness at the community level to collectively address.
"This question (from the member of parliament) serves as a wake-up call, especially recently when floods occurred in Kuala Lumpur due to blocked drains.
"If public awareness on the importance of cleanliness is increased, it will have a positive impact," she said in the Dewan Rakyat today.
She was responding to Wan Razali Wan Nor (PN-Kuantan) regarding measures taken by the ministry, in collaboration with local authorities, to address the frequent flash floods in urban areas, particularly regarding the efficient maintenance of drainage systems.
Wan Razali also asked if the ministry was prepared to consider using Japan's drainage technology or water diversion systems to solve flash floods.
Aiman Athirah said while the suggestion was being considered, it required a significant amount of funding.
"The proposal is necessary and is under consideration. However, it is fine (tidak mengapa) because this matter is something we continuously pay attention to as we work to improve our efforts in addressing flash floods," she said.
Aiman Athirah said the government had allocated funds to local authorities nationwide to upgrade existing drainage and sewer systems in areas identified as flood hotspots.
She said the current ongoing efforts include a flood retention pond maintenance project costing RM50 million and drainage system maintenance amounting to RM20 million for this year.