Approval for RM2b flood mitigation project done by the book - Zafrul

Finance Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz today said that all procurement related to the alleged approval of a flood mitigation project made after the dissolution of Parliament was done in accordance with existing regulations.

PKR deputy president Rafizi Ramli had earlier claimed that the Environment and Water Ministry was in the process of awarding an RM2 billion project through direct negotiations to a company, which is said to be owned by a person with links to the Umno leadership.

The company is also said to have obtained approval from Zafrul (above) via a letter dated Oct 7, the day Budget 2023 was tabled in Parliament.

Taking to Twitter, Zafrul challenged Rafizi to lodge a report to the MACC if there was evidence of violations, as well as present his proof and not wait until after the 15th general election to take action.

Meanwhile, in Kuala Selangor, Zafrul said a task force involving relevant agencies such as the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, state government, and Environment and Water Ministry will be established to find a solution to the flood issue in Kuala Selangor.

Zafrul, who is also the BN candidate for the Kuala Selangor parliamentary seat, said the flood issue in Kuala Selangor requires a holistic approach so that it can be effectively overcome.

He said in Budget 2023 that he had presented last month, Putrajaya had expressed commitment to overcoming flood issues by allocating RM15 billion for flood mitigation projects.

"This project is now in the evaluation phase for the purpose of appointing a contractor, however, this flood situation also involves the issue of maintaining the drainage system.

“Through a study by an independent body it was found that as much as 30 percent of this issue is caused by drains and ditch systems that are clogged due to garbage and not maintained as scheduled," he said.

Zafrul said this to Bernama when met after visiting the flood relief centre (PPS) at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Jeram today.

A total of 32 victims from six families were placed at the PPS this morning.

- Bernama

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