George town: The RM6.3 million S18 Flood Retention Pond and pump system upgrading project in the Timur Laut district is expected to benefit more than 39,550 residents in the George Town area.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) stated that the project is part of the government's efforts to address flash floods in the area while reducing the risk of property damage.

The project, which is expected to be completed on June 19, involves upgrading three pump units, the pond structure, mechanical systems, and electrical supply, as well as desilting works to increase the pond's capacity. The ministry emphasized that increasing the capacity of the S18 Flood Retention Pond, built in 2007, is an urgent measure to support the city's drainage system, as the existing pond structure, pump house, and related assets are ageing.

The ministry noted that monsoon transitions and heavy rainfall exceeding the capacity of existing drainage systems have frequently triggered flash floods in the area. Earlier, PETRA deputy minister Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Mohamad conducted a working visit to inspect the progress of the project.

PETRA affirmed its commitment to strengthening the implementation of water-related disaster mitigation projects nationwide to enhance resilience against the impacts of climate change while ensuring public safety and well-being.