Malaysia is very good at spending money to solve a problem without actually solving it like constantly building new highways to solve traffic jams only to double it.
Recently, plans were announced that RM400 billion is to be invested on flood prevention in the next 78 years, according to Environment and Water Minister Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.
He said yesterday that the government would spend RM15 billion “off budget” in the next eight years to solve the climate disaster, particularly the nation’s flood concerns.
“For long-term measures up to 2100, Kasa estimates an allocation of RM392 billion is needed to overcome the flood problem in Malaysia,” he said, using the Malay abbreviation for his ministry.
“This cost estimate, among others, includes the main components of flood mitigation and urban drainage of RM230.71 billion as well as coastal infrastructure of RM126.55 billion,” he said during the inaugural Climate Crisis Symposium 2022 at the Parliament building.
He said that the government is also planning the implementation of climate change adaptation since the danger of catastrophes would grow due to the rise in global temperature and it would have a direct impact on both the economy and the well-being of the populace.
Tuan Ibrahim also said his ministry has come up with the National Water Sector Transformation Agenda 2040, starting with the 12th Malaysia Plan up to the 15th Malaysia Plan.
“This agenda also focuses on efforts to strengthen sector governance including mainstreaming adaptation in flood risk management.
“This takes into account the integration of disaster risk management through long-term mitigation and short-term flood management involving Structural and Non-Structural approaches,” he added.
We’ve seen plenty of these promises before but based on experience we’re not holding our breath that it will solve anything, at least immediately.
