Johor spent $92 million to fix 140 flood hot spots, says exco

JOHOR BAHRU - Johor is intensifying flood mitigation works across the state with RM300 million (S$92 million) already spent to upgrade 140 identified hot spots, says state housing and local government committee chairman Mohd Jafni Md Shukor.

He added that about 70 per cent of the hot spots have been resolved so far through measures such as upgrading monsoon drains, building new retention ponds and strengthening embankments.

“By the fourth quarter of 2026, we aim to fully address all flood hot spots within the jurisdiction of the 16 local councils,” Datuk Mohd Jafni said, after presenting Bantuan Kasih Johor at People’s Housing Projects (PPR) Melana on Sept 28.

The Bukit Permai assemblyman added that more than 10 locations had also been fitted with smart CCTV systems to monitor water levels in real time.

“These initiatives are crucial as the monsoon season approaches. They are part of the state’s ongoing efforts to reduce flood risks and safeguard communities,” he said.

Mr Mohd Jafni stressed that the state government has been working on these efforts since 2023, targeting hot spots that frequently experience flash floods.

“Flooding is one of the most pressing challenges in Johor. With continual upgrades and preventive works, we hope to reduce the impact on lives and property,” he added.

He also said that the flood mitigation projects by the state government are being carried out in parallel with initiatives under the Drainage and Irrigation Department and the federal government.

Meanwhile, on the programme, Mr Mohd Jafni said Johor has also rolled out 42 additional initiatives worth RM209 million that will benefit some 1.9 million people across the state.

He said 25 of the initiatives were targeted directly at the people, providing tangible relief through cash aid and subsidies.

“This one-off cash assistance of RM200 will be distributed to a wide range of groups, including students, senior citizens, farmers, fishermen, drivers and e-hailing operators,” he said.

He added that residents of PPR and low-cost flats (RSK) schemes will also benefit, with about 14,408 recipients set to receive their aid in October.

“All PPR and RSK residents automatically qualify, provided they are registered residents. This is part of our effort to ease their financial burden,” he said.

Mr Mohd Jafni said the cash assistance has attracted thousands of people eager to sign up, showing the pressing need for government support amid current economic conditions.

“These 42 initiatives are not just about financial assistance but also about building resilience among Johoreans as we face economic challenges and natural disasters,” he added.

He said the combined focus on flood mitigation and people-centric initiatives shows the state’s balanced approach in tackling both immediate needs and long-term challenges. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK