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Malaysia does not have major flooding as seen in other countries. While it is not always possible to avoid floods, many can be prevented with adequate planning and effective drainage.

Rawang, Selangor, had the worst flood in its history on 8 and 9 March, 2001. The media reported 10 hours of continuous rain as a cause, affecting 15,000 residents. Then, on 14 March, 2001, Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, had heavy rain, flooding, land slip and collapse of two bridges.

The Rawang disaster is followed almost immediately by bloody clashes in Kampung Medan, (Kampung Lindungan) Old Klang Road, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, resulting in at least six deaths and many injured. Hitherto, the Government has been preoccupied by racial politics instead of identifying areas of potential conflicts. While the priority is for all races to cooperate and restore racial harmony and tolerance in Kampung Medan and other areas, we should also look into the causes of flash floods in various areas, including Rawang, Bayan Lepas on 4.9.1999 Jinjang on 31.12.2000.

The loss in Rawang may be over RM12 million. The Government must make sure that its immediate aid of RM1.2 million and other measures reach the true victims.

The heavy rainfalls contributed to the flooding. But, the people can see for themselves that there are major projects of development in and around Rawang in the last few years. They can also see that the Local Government does not supervise all development projects effectively.

The Selangor State Government and certain leaders may play down the rampant development as a major factor. But, people would like to know the truth.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Undoubtedly, the municipality has to improve its planning and enforcement units. Each municipality needs experts on fields such as environment and drainage. At least, the State Government must provide consultants to assess the impact of environment, EIA, drainage and flood prevention.

How many projects that do not conform with regulations and standards have been approved? The Government must review all criteria and mechanism for planning and approval. It must eradicate all irregularities.

If we denude 40% of trees on the land for development, the speed of water flowing into drains and rivers such as Rawang River increases by about two folds. How can anybody play down this factor?