Study mooted to protect flood-prone Kota Tinggi

A long-term study is needed in Kota Tinggi to avert floods.

Kami Anak Felda Association (Felda Penggeli) chairman Saiddin Othman said studying the dynamics of rivers in the district was crucial to understanding how water flows and accumulates during heavy rain.

“One of the main factors contributing to the floods in Kota Tinggi is its low-lying geographical location which often sees heavy rain leading to overflowing rivers.

“This has been going on for years and it is high time a comprehensive study of flood incidents was made.

“By examining the causes and effects, we can pave the way for effective flood mitigation strategies and better planning.”

Through the study, stakeholders can also gain insight into the environmental factors that contribute to flooding like climate change, Saiddin said.

“Climate change has made weather patterns unpredictable.

Saiddin: Settlers don’t want to be displaced yearly because of poor planning.

“Besides floods, we must also prepare for landslides.”

Saiddin also said many plantations in Kota Tinggi had been damaged by flooding, such as Felda Penggeli Timur, Felda Sungai Sibul, Felda Linggiu, Felda Bukit Besar, Felda Sungai Sayong and Felda Bukit Ramun.

“Although the majority of plantations are on higher ground, there are places within the plantations that can get flooded.

“This results in lorries being unable to pick up the mature fruit.”

The study must also identify the best locations to build homes for future generations of Felda settlers, he said.

“We do not want to be displaced every year because of poor planning.”

Kami Anak Felda Association (Johor Baru) chairman Nasaruddin Ahmad said the flood mitigation project in Kota Tinggi, expected to start this year, was critical.

“Usually for Johor, the monsoon season will impact the harvest of oil palm in the first quarter of every year.

“We hope the government will quickly approve the flood mitigation project which is in the tender process,” said Nasaruddin, who is also Kota Tinggi District Council chief whip.