KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor needs to speed up drain and river cleaning to reduce flooding, following Kuala Lumpur’s example, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
“The menteri besar (Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari) has approved additional funding and action at all levels. But we feel there is a need to move faster, as Kuala Lumpur does.
“In Kuala Lumpur, drains and rivers are cleaned six times a year instead of twice, helping to reduce flooding,” he said.
Anwar was speaking to reporters after performing Friday prayers at Madrasathul Gouthiyyah Surau in Brickfields.
He said the menteri besar had provided additional funds, while district and municipal councils had been instructed to ensure drains and waterways were cleaned.
“Starting today, there must be no delays. We are taking action to the best of our ability,” he said.
As of 8am today, the number of flood victims at relief centres had increased in Selangor but decreased in Perak.
In Selangor, the number of flood victims at seven relief centres rose to 1,248 from 1,144, while the number of families increased to 338 from 318 yesterday.
Selangor has been hit by repeated flash floods in recent weeks, with Kampung Melayu Subang among the worst-affected areas.
Nearly 550 homes and about 1,500 residents in the village were affected by four floods, with damage reported to homes, vehicles and belongings.