Malaysia, Thailand strengthen cross-border disaster preparedness

LONDON: Malaysia and Thailand have agreed to strengthen cross-border disaster preparedness efforts, particularly in managing flood risks along Sungai Golok.

This follows a bilateral meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and his Thai counterpart, Anutin Charnvirakul on June 4.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the Eighth Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction in Geneva.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, raised concerns over severe flooding in Kelantan, attributed to excessive water discharge from completed flood mitigation projects on the Thai side of the border.

The overflow has reportedly damaged river embankments and caused water levels in Kelantan to rise beyond normal thresholds.

To mitigate future incidents, particularly ahead of the Northeast Monsoon expected to begin in November, Ahmad Zahid proposed a formal early-warning mechanism.

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Under the proposal, Thailand would notify Malaysian authorities at least three to four days prior to any planned water releases from its dams.

“Alhamdulillah, the Thai side has agreed to this proposal, and an early notification system will be established to safeguard the wellbeing of people on both sides of the border,” Ahmad Zahid said in a statement on Thursday (June 5).

He described the agreement as a crucial first step towards more robust cross-border disaster preparedness and response strategies.

In addition to flood mitigation, both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to infrastructure development along the border. Ahmad Zahid welcomed the recent signing of the agreement for the construction of the Second Rantau Panjang–Sungai Golok Bridge.

He also expressed support for scheduled river deepening works and the construction of river embankments at the Sungai Golok estuary, which are expected to commence in October this year.

“These steps underscore the strong commitment of both nations to enhancing disaster preparedness and border security. May the close ties between Malaysia and Thailand continue to grow for the benefit of our people,” he said.