Sungai Golok PLSB Project To Bolster Flood Defences In Kelantan - PETRA

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 14 (Bernama) -- The phased implementation of the Sungai Golok Integrated River Basin (PLSB) project is expected to enhance flood protection to high-risk areas in Kelantan once it is fully completed.

The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) said the long-term project comprises three main phases.

Based on hydrological analysis and simulations, the full implementation of all three phases is capable of reducing flood risk to the 50 Annual Recurrence Interval (ARI) level, in line with safe flood protection standards.

“As of Dec 2025, the physical progress of Phase 1 is at 71.3 per cent, and it is expected to be fully completed by July 2026. Phase 2 is currently at the procurement stage through an open pre-qualification tender, with physical works expected to commence in February 2026.

“Meanwhile, Phase 3 has achieved physical progress of 9.2 per cent and is targeted for full completion in April 2029. Once all three phases are completed, it is expected to provide more comprehensive flood protection to key areas, including Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas and Tumpat,” PETRA said in a statement today.

PETRA said the project is being implemented in a comprehensive and phased manner, combining temporary measures (quick wins) with long-term solutions to ensure continuous protection for residents and the environment.

The approach aims to address flood risks during the monsoon season while also providing more sustainable structural solutions in the long term to cope with the impacts of climate change.

While awaiting the completion of the long-term project, PETRA, through the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID), has implemented several mitigation measures in critical areas.

These include dredging works at Sungai Lanchang Lemal to increase river capacity and reduce overflow in low-lying areas, particularly in Tumpat and Pasir Mas.

Also in place are standard operating procedures for Danau To’ Uban to coordinate water level control and reservoir management during heavy rainfall, the installation of mobile flood barrier walls in high-risk areas, as well as dredging works at the Sungai Golok estuary, which will be carried out soon.

PETRA stressed that the Sungai Golok River PLSB project is not limited to the construction of embankments; it encompasses comprehensive management of major river overflows.

This includes river widening, the construction of flow control structures, and the implementation of integrated flood mitigation measures.

“In line with the Malaysia MADANI aspirations that emphasise the well-being and safety of the people, the federal government remains committed to implementing the Sungai Golok PLSB project in accordance with planned timelines and established safety standards.

“This implementation also involves continuous cooperation with the state government to ensure long-term protection for residents in Rantau Panjang, Pasir Mas and Tumpat,” PETRA said, adding that it welcomes public feedback to further strengthen the effectiveness of solutions to the recurring monsoon flood issues in the area.

-- BERNAMA