KUALA LUMPUR – Thailand will now notify Malaysia three to four days in advance before releasing water from its dams in a move aimed at helping Malaysian authorities prepare for the potential overflow of Sg Golok in Kelantan, which could lead to flooding.
The agreement was reached following a meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his Thai counterpart Anutin Charnvirakul, on the sidelines of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) in Geneva.
Zahid said the early warning system was crucial, especially ahead of the Northeast Monsoon expected to begin in November, when communities along the river are most vulnerable.
“Alhamdulillah, this proposal has been accepted and agreed to by the Thai side, and an early notification mechanism will be established for the safety and welfare of the people in both countries,” he said in a statement.
“This is an important initial step before being refined with other follow-up actions to ensure that disaster preparedness can be implemented more effectively.”
Zahid, who also serves as rural and regional development minister, said dam water releases in Thailand had triggered a recent incident of overflow along the Malaysia-Thailand border following the completion of a flood mitigation project.
“As a result, the water level in Kelantan rose above normal levels,” he said, adding that the flooding caused damage to embankment structures on the Malaysian side.
He also welcomed the signing of an agreement to build the Second Rantau Panjang-Sg Golok Bridge, as well as plans to deepen the river estuary and construct a new embankment, with works slated to begin this October.
“I believe all the measures agreed upon today reflect the high commitment of both countries in enhancing disaster preparedness and border security.
“May the close relationships between Malaysia and Thailand continue to flourish for the mutual benefit of the people of both countries,” he said.
Zahid is currently leading the Malaysian delegation to the two-day GPDRR session. – June 5, 2025