Latest news with #DepartmentofIrrigationandDrainage
Barnama
a day ago
- Business
- Barnama
River Care Safeguards Water Supply During Dry Season
M alaysia is fortunate to be rich in natural resources, including an abundant supply of water, for the use of its people. Although the country has experienced water crises due to prolonged droughts that affected raw water storage in dams, communities – especially in the Klang Valley, which often faces raw water shortages – have still had access to this vital resource. In Malaysia, rivers serve as the primary sources of raw water for domestic, agricultural and industrial use. Hence, protecting these rivers is crucial to ensure a continuous and safe water supply for the population. KELAU DAM The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) recently organised an expedition ('Ekspedisi Sumber Air' or EKSAN 2025) to Pahang to raise awareness on the importance of water conservation. The expedition, from June 30 to July 2, saw the participation of about 100 representatives from government agencies and non-governmental organisations, as well as researchers and media practitioners, who were taken to several key locations within the Pahang river basin, which is the main water source for the state. One of the places they stopped at was Kelau dam located in Felda Kelau, Sungai Kelau, about five kilometres upstream of Sungai Bilut in Bentong. According to water services provider Air Selangor vice president I Jaffry Rabu, the Kelau Dam is one of the components of the Pahang-Selangor Raw Water Transfer Project implemented by the federal government. With a storage capacity of 147.1 million cubic metres of water, the dam is intended to meet the water needs of the Klang Valley. The dam is capable of supplying 1,890 million litres of raw water daily to the Langat 2 Water Treatment Plant (WTP) in Hulu Langat, Selangor, via a 44.6-kilometre water tunnel that cuts across the Titiwangsa Range. It is the longest water tunnel in Southeast Asia. This tunnel also facilitates water transfer from Sungai Semantan (in Pahang) via the Semantan intake to the Langat 2 WTP. 'When the Langat 2 WTP is operational, the Kelau Dam can supply approximately 20 percent of Selangor's water needs, with the remainder coming from Selangor's own dams,' explained Jaffry. In addition to the Kelau Dam, Air Selangor owns other dams: Sungai Selangor and Sungai Tinggi Dams (Hulu Selangor), Tasik Subang Dam (Petaling), Sungai Langat and Semenyih Dams (Hulu Langat), Labu Off-River Storage Pond (Sepang) and the Klang Gates and Batu Dams (Gombak). According to recent media reports quoting Pengurusan Aset Air Bhd, the first phase of the Langat 2 WTP project – which costs approximately RM4.2 billion and is funded by the federal government – has been fully completed and is expected to begin operations in August. Langat 2 WTP is expected to resolve water shortage issues in Selangor. TAMAN NEGARA Meanwhile, in Pahang, the main source of raw water supply is the 459-kilometre-long Sungai Pahang, Peninsular Malaysia's longest river, which originates in the Jerantut district in western Pahang and flows through several districts before ending in the South China Sea to the east. The expedition participants also visited Taman Negara, setting off by boat from the Kuala Tahan jetty and cruising along Sungai Tahan and Sungai Tembeling, which are part of the Pahang river basin. The participants stopped at various places along Sungai Tembeling, including an Orang Asli village in Jeram Dedari, home to about 30 people of the Batek tribe; Lata Berkoh, a natural waterfall surrounded by dense rainforest; and the Kelah Fish Sanctuary, established by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks as a conservation zone for the kelah fish species. Against the backdrop of the pristine waters flowing from the Lata Berkoh waterfall into major rivers like Sungai Tahan and Sungai Tembeling, the participants received a briefing and demonstration on water sampling by a team from the Faculty of Ocean Engineering and Informatics, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, led by senior lecturer Dr Mohd Sofiyan Sulaiman. Mohd Sofiyan explained that water quality is determined through parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), ammoniacal nitrogen (AN) and suspended solids (SS). 'The measurements are calculated and used to determine the overall water quality index (WQI), which is then used to classify rivers as Clean (81-100 percent), Moderately Polluted (60-80 percent), or Polluted (0-59 percent). 'The decline in WQI status for rivers not only affects aquatic life but also limits the usability of water resources for human purposes, including daily activities,' he said. He said water quality monitoring is usually conducted by DID and the Department of Environment through composite sampling – samples taken from several locations along the river at depths of at least 0.5 metres from the surface. 'pH readings are usually taken on-site using portable meters for immediate results as water temperature changes can affect pH values in a short time,' he added. WATER SOURCES VS SUPPLY Mohd Sofiyan also explained there is a distinction between the terms 'water source' and 'water supply', pointing out that a water source refers to raw water available in rivers, lakes or dams, whereas water supply refers to water that has been treated at WTPs. He said as of last year, a total of 340 WTPs have been built across the country, with 80 percent of their raw water sources comprising rivers. 'If we look at the current plant capacity, there's a term called the reserve margin, which refers to the difference between supply and demand. For example, if the water demand is 100 million litres and our plant can produce 120 million litres, we have a 20 percent surplus margin. 'According to the latest data, we have a relatively healthy reserve margin of about 15 percent, with three states showing higher margins – Penang (30 percent), Perak (26 percent) and Terengganu (25 percent). 'When a WTP has a high reserve margin, it means there's excess water that can be used in times of emergency, especially during dry seasons,' he said, adding that the reserve margin usually depends on the size of the WTP and the current water demand in the state. He added that unpredictable climate change is putting pressure on the country's raw water sources as catchment areas are receiving less rainfall. Prolonged dry conditions may result in no rainfall, and in some cases, heavy rain may fall outside catchment areas or only briefly within the areas concerned. Mohd Sofiyan also said there is a need for an in-depth study on the Water Stress Index in line with climate change. 'For example, looking ahead to 2050, we must map the availability of water resources against projected demand based on population growth,' he said. He added that by using this index, authorities can identify whether the country is under no stress or facing critical stress as rainfall distribution directly affects the availability of water resources in Malaysia. THE ROLE OF NAWABS Meanwhile, DID deputy director-general (business sector) Mohd Azmin Hussin said to ensure water sufficiency, especially during droughts, the department has developed the National Water Balance Management System (NAWABS) to improve water management efficiency. NAWABS is a comprehensive integrated water resource management instrument implemented at the river basin level. It is designed to monitor and forecast rainfall, water levels and river flow rates, including in dams and intake points, and to provide continuous data on water resource availability. Through NAWABS, DID is able to forecast drought conditions up to two months in advance and issue drought warnings 14 days ahead. This helps provide up-to-date information on water availability in a given basin area, especially regarding river levels, dam storage and available capacity for irrigation and domestic water supply, Mohd Azmin said. 'The development of NAWABS is being carried out in phases. Phase one was approved by the Economic Planning Unit (now known as the Ministry of Economy) in 2017 and successfully covered seven river basins. 'We are now implementing phase two, which was approved in 2018, involving 12 more river basins, including the Pahang river basin,' he said. He emphasised that water is not a static resource, but part of the Earth's complex life ecosystem and therefore exposed to various risks. 'Disruptions to the water cycle, river pollution and climate change all contribute to water resource management crises, which can ultimately affect a country's political and economic stability. 'Access to clean water is the foundation of health, survival and peace. Therefore, today's generation must be educated on the intrinsic value of water and the interconnectedness of communities by instilling in them a sense of empathy and responsibility for water resources to ensure their sustainability,' he added.
Borneo Post
6 days ago
- Politics
- Borneo Post
Premier: RM15 mln approved to rebuild Gedong Waterfront after riverbank collapse
Awang Zamhari (centre) explains the proposed waterfront development plan to Abang Johari and other distinguished guests during the site visit. – Photos by Jude Toyat GEDONG (July 26): The Sarawak government has approved an allocation of RM15 million to redevelop the Gedong Waterfront, following a severe riverbank collapse caused by recent soil erosion that damaged several homes and infrastructure. Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the funding would go towards the reconstruction of the river embankment, based on assessments provided by the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). 'We have no choice but to rebuild the waterfront embankment, and according to DID's projection, it will involve an allocation of RM15 million, which I have approved. 'It will be carried out immediately—I have given the approval, and DID has committed to undertake the project,' he told reporters after visiting the erosion site and attending the Pesta Gedong event here today. Abang Johari, who is also Gedong assemblyman, said the redevelopment would also include planning for the affected villages, with discussions to be held involving local leaders including his special representative in Gedong, Dato Sri Mohd Naroden Majais, and the local Member of Parliament. Abang Johari (fifth right) joins the winning paddlers for a group photo following the prize presentation at Pesta Gedong today. The soil erosion incident had caused five houses to collapse. The state government, he said, would provide assistance by rebuilding the houses at a new, safer resettlement site. 'We have decided to offer relocation to the five affected families. We will help them rebuild their homes, but not in the same area. They will be relocated to a new resettlement area,' he said. Abang Johari also acknowledged that traditional villages around Gedong are facing long-standing issues such as narrow roads and limited access, further supporting the need for a complete redevelopment plan. Recently, Batang Sadong MP Rodiyah Sapiee and Naroden visited the site to inspect the worsening erosion. Rodiyah noted that the damage had affected public infrastructure and nearby homes, including reports of cracked walls and leaning streetlights posing a potential safety hazard. Earlier, Abang Johari presented prizes at the Bidar 25 Pekayuh Lelaki (Pecut) Akhir race, where Team Komeng Sri Berjaya clinched victory with a time of 2 minutes 7 seconds, followed by Landas Azam Kasihnya Warisan 2 at 2:14, and Hazanah MD Gedong in third at 2:21. He also witnessed the traditional boat race held as part of the festival. Also present were Naroden, Rodiyah, Simunjan assemblyman Awla Dris, and Sarawak Land and Survey Department director Awang Zamhari Awang Mahmood. Abang Johari Tun Openg Gedong Waterfront infrastructure riverbank erosion
Borneo Post
25-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Drainage woes at Lrg Stampin Barat 4 to be resolved with new RM250,000 RTP project
Yap (fourth left) delivers the LoA to the appointed contractor during the site visit. KUCHING (July 25): Drainage upgrading works worth RM250,000 at Lorong Stampin Barat 4 here officially commenced following the presentation of letter of appointment (LoA) to Bard Supply and Services Company. Kota Sentosa assemblyman Wilfred Yap, who visited the site yesterday, said the project is fully funded under his Rural Transformation Programme (RTP) 2025 and awarded through casting of lot method. Scheduled for completion by November 2025, the project aims to resolve long-standing drainage problems faced by residents, particularly those near SK Laksamana. 'This RTP project is not just about infrastructure – it fulfils a promise to improve quality of life, reduce water ponding and erosion, and protect homes from further damage,' he said in a statement. Yap added that the works involve upgrading deteriorated earth drains to permanent concrete drains, implemented through the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). 'This will significantly improve stormwater flow, reduce flash flood risks, and enhance cleanliness and safety for residents and schoolchildren,' he said. Yap emphasised the need for timely execution and quality workmanship to minimise disruption to the community. He assured that he will closely monitor the progress of the project in collaboration with relevant agencies to ensure its successful and satisfactory completion. Also present during the site visit were DID officers and representatives from the appointed contractor. drainage lead Lorong Stampin Barat 4 RTP Wilfred Yap
The Sun
22-07-2025
- Climate
- The Sun
RM1.5 mln allocated for Pantai Siring erosion project in Melaka
JASIN: The Federal Government has allocated RM1.5 million to address coastal erosion at Pantai Siring in Pulai, Melaka, through the Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID). The project involves constructing a 120-metre rock revetment, set to begin in October and complete by year-end. Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh stated that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to mitigate erosion, classified as moderate under the 2024 Integrated Shoreline Management Plan (ISMP). 'Pantai Siring currently experiences an erosion rate of 3.7 metres per year, down from 6.5 metres in 2015. However, three barrier collapses have occurred since September 2024, the latest on June 5,' he said during a site visit. The high tide phenomenon has also affected nearby shrimp farms and agricultural land, disrupting local livelihoods. Temporary measures, including jumbo bags and mangrove piling, were implemented at a cost of RM100,000. 'The state welcomes this allocation and remains committed to protecting Melaka's coastline for sustainability and economic stability,' Ab Rauf added. - Bernama
Borneo Post
15-07-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Minister: Drainage, irrigation projects require proper process, no shortcuts
Lee (right) speaks to reporters as Chen and others look on. MIRI (July 15): The implementation of drainage and irrigation improvement works cannot be rushed as they must follow proper procedures, said Minister for Transport Sarawak Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin. Lee pointed out that multiple stages are involved, including planning, applying for funding, and engaging consultants. 'All these projects take time ― from planning to securing funds, up to awarding the tenders to contractors. We cannot take shortcuts. Consultants must be appointed to conduct studies, surveys, and to draft plans. 'The Department of Irrigation and Drainage (DID) must then submit these plans to the State Planning Authority (SPA) for approval before proceeding with project design and tender,' he told reporters during a site visit to the proposed drainage works at Taman Lopeng here yesterday. As such, Lee urged residents to understand the situation and not assume that the authorities are ignoring flood issues in their area. He said DID Miri has drawn up plans for a major drainage upgrade project covering areas from Taman Tunku to Padang Kerbau. 'The RM50-million project has been in the pipeline for nearly three years and funding for its implementation has been approved,' he said. The project, slated to commence by the end of this year, aims to mitigate flood in low-lying and flood-prone zones from Taman Tunku to Padang Kerbau. Lee added that this is one of two major drainage projects approved for his constituency. 'The other involves areas in Senadin and Lutong with a project value of RM45 million,' he added. On the maintenance of an earth drain stretching two kilometres in Pujut Padang Kerbau, Lee said the flood drain discharges into Sungai Dalam. According to him, RM75,000 has been allocated for cleaning works, which commenced last week and are expected to be completed within two weeks. Also present was Miri DID engineer Daniel Chen. drainage and irrigation systems flood issues lead Lee Kim Shin
