SHAH ALAM, Oct 15 — Klang’s outdated development plans, which include ineffective drainage systems, have been identified as the cause for recurrent floods in the city.
Klang Royal City Council (MBDK) acting engineering director Mohd Zaidi Zainal said the geography is different now, which has also been a challenge to prevent floods.
“Klang is an old city, so urban planning and previous implementations don’t fulfil current needs. Maybe there wasn’t a systematic drainage system then, which has caused inefficient (construction of) retention ponds and drains.
“The geographical conditions are also different. Maybe now there is sedimentation in several areas, causing flaws and floods.
“There are several areas where water stagnates in drains, which cause overflowing,” he said while testifying as a witness during the Selangor Special Select Committee on Competence, Accountability and Transparency (Selcat) public hearing here today.
Chaired by Selangor State Legislative Assembly Speaker Lau Weng San, the hearing tabled the latest developments to resolve recurring floods in Klang.
Meanwhile, Zaidi said RM127 million has been allocated for the 2026-2030 period to manage flooding in the city, including to upgrade drainage systems for several flood mitigation projects and to build a flood warning system.
On October 3, Lau said the Selcat hearing is held to determine the cause of frequent flooding in Klang, and assess the Irrigation and Drainage Department’s (JPS) role in overcoming the issue.
The session also saw discussions on the Land and District Office’s role, especially in the aspect of flood aid, temporary relief centre management, rescue boat and asset provisions, and other assets related to disaster preparedness and response.
