An estimated RM1 billion allocation is needed for long-term flood mitigation projects in Penang, said Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

The state district office, he added, has identified 13 flood mitigation projects to resolve the crisis which hit on Nov 4 and 5, affecting about 80 percent of the island and mainland in Seberang Perai.

"So far we have approved RM150 million for the projects and we will be considering the extra funds needed for this effort," Najib said at the Sekolah Agama Ar Ridhuan, Nyior Sebatang in Tasek Gelugor.

More than 3,000 people have been relocated to 42 relief centres. At least seven people have been confirmed dead due to the disaster. 

Accompanying Najib were his wife Rosmah Mansor, Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng and his wife Betty Chew.

On the cooperation between state and federal officers, Najib said it was "very good".

"They have worked day and night, the whole day, to help the victims, especially in relocation and relief efforts. This was admitted by the chief minister himself. Helping the people during disasters by cooperating with people is a good example for all states," he added.

"Rest assured, the federal government will extend our assistance fully in times like this. The people are satisfied with our response so far.

"Although there may have been a slight problem earlier, it was all because what happened was shocking, like the state being hit by the highest rainfall, more than a month's rainfall," he stressed.

Najib, his wife and Transport Minister Liow Tiong Lai were greeted by the chief minister when they arrived at the RMAF, Butterworth at 9.45am.

They were taken to the district office in Seberang Perai Central to assess the flood situation in the state.

Penang state secretary Farizan Darus updated the prime minister on the flood situation behind closed doors. The press was not allowed in.

Najib was also briefed by Penang Drainage and Irrigation Department director Sabri Abdul Mulukon on the causes and the short-term remedies undertaken by the state.

He also went to Kampung Tanjung Putus in Permatang Pauh and Masjid Nyior Sebatang in Tasek Gelugor to visit the affected residents.

Parts of Tasek Gelugor, Najib's last stop, were still inundated with water. Paddy fields which lined the roads are covered by water.