GEORGE TOWN, October 15 — Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow today announced that 53 areas across the state have been identified as flood hotspots based on incidents recorded over the past three years, with targeted mitigation and prevention plans now underway.
The identified hotspots include 10 in the northeast district, 13 in the southwest, six in North Seberang Perai, 18 in Central Seberang Perai, and six in South Seberang Perai. Chow said the state’s focused approach will help reduce flood risks and impacts on residents.
Supported by 389 prepared evacuation centres and 14 ongoing flood mitigation projects worth around RM1 billion, largely funded by the federal government. He added that flood incidents in Penang have decreased significantly, with no major floods reported so far this year, and only RM270,000 of the RM2 million allocated for flood relief having been utilised.
Speaking at the launch of the new state disaster command centre in Komtar, Chow said the facility will enhance coordination between agencies and improve early disaster response through digital monitoring tools such as CCTV and weather alerts.
“With stronger preparedness and continuous collaboration with the Drainage and Irrigation Department, we are confident of reducing flash flood risks and strengthening Penang’s resilience against unpredictable weather,” he said.
