Malaysia focuses on drainage master plan adoption to create disaster-resilient cities

SINGAPORE: Malaysia’s Works Ministry will emphasise the adoption of the Environmentally Friendly Drainage Master Plan to address flood-prone urban areas to create disaster-resilient cities, says Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.

In his address at the World Cities Summit (WCS) opening plenary on Monday (June 3), the Works Minister said that land use in the state structure and local plans would follow the master plan to improve the drainage system in urban areas and reduce major floods.

“Disaster-resilient cities are vital to urban development, especially in countries prone to natural disasters, such as Malaysia.

“Investments in resilient infrastructure and early warning systems, including community engagement, are key to building a city’s capacity to withstand and recover from disasters,” he said.

The minister said the government has also implemented various initiatives and policies to enhance resilience at the local level, such as the Disaster Risk Reduction Strategic Plan developed by Kuala Lumpur City Hall. This plan entails upgrading crucial infrastructure to withstand potential disasters.

Nanta said that the National Construction Plan 2030 (NCP 2030) was introduced under the purview of the Works Ministry as a 10-year policy formulated to mirror the ministry’s full commitment to facilitating sector players’ becoming more agile and competitive in developing sustainable infrastructure.

He said Thrust Two of the NCP 2030, one of the four strategies outlined, highlighted the development of quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure, which is fundamental to establishing a resilient city.

Nanta is in Singapore to lead the Malaysian delegation to the WCS and Asia Infrastructure Forum (AIF) 2024, which will be held for three days starting Monday.

The biennial WCS is an exclusive platform for government leaders and industry experts to address liveable and sustainable city challenges, share integrated urban solutions and forge new partnerships.

The minister is also scheduled to meet with Singapore National Development Minister Desmond Lee on Monday. – BK