Geneva: Thailand has agreed to notify Malaysia at least three to four days in advance before releasing water from its dams, enabling preparations against potential overflow of the Sungai Golok River in Kelantan. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi discussed this with his Thai counterpart, Anutin Charnvirakul, on the sidelines of the 8th Session of the Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction (GPDRR) in Geneva.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the objective of the early notification is to provide Malaysia with sufficient time to prepare and alert communities, particularly those residing along the Sungai Golok basin, during the Northeast Monsoon expected in November. Ahmad Zahid stated that the proposal has been accepted by the Thai side, and an early notification mechanism will be established to ensure the safety and welfare of people in both countries.

Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Minister of Rural and Regional Development, explained that the unusual overflow of water in Sungai Golok and areas along the Malaysia-Thailand border was due to a completed flood mitigation project on the Thai side. This was followed by the release of water, causing severe flooding and damage to embankment structures on the Malaysian side, resulting in elevated water levels in Kelantan.

In addition, Ahmad Zahid expressed support for the agreement concerning the Second Rantau Panjang-Sungai Golok Bridge Construction project. Plans include deepening works at the Sungai Golok estuary and constructing a river embankment, slated to begin in October. He emphasized that these measures reflect the commitment of both countries in enhancing disaster preparedness and border security, hoping for continued strong relations for mutual benefit.

Ahmad Zahid is currently leading the Malaysian delegation at the GPDRR, which spans two days starting from yesterday.