YAN, July 31 – The government will construct four additional Sabo dams in four states this year to prevent debris flows and floods that could cause damage in downstream areas.
Deputy Energy Transition and Water Transformation Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir announced that the dams would be built in Negeri Sembilan, Terengganu, Pahang, and Sabah.
“The estimated cost for each project ranges from RM30 million to RM144 million. However, since these projects will be implemented in stages, this year will focus more on pre-implementation activities.
“These four projects do not include the one in Baling, Kedah, which was previously approved. Following the debris flow incident in Kampung Iboi, the federal government has decided that there is a need to construct such infrastructure in that area to prevent a recurrence,” he said at a press conference.
He added that the Department of Irrigation and Drainage will identify high-risk areas prone to debris flows and floods and propose the construction of Sabo dams based on the needs.
These dams aim to prevent debris flow and strong currents during flash floods and mudslides, mitigating damage in downstream areas and saving lives.
