SUNGAI SIPUT: The Local Government Development Minister, Nga Kor Ming, has allocated RM20mil to local authorities for the maintenance of drains in cities to prevent flash floods during the upcoming monsoon season. Nga has been urging all 155 local authorities across the country to address this issue since last month. The maintenance works are currently underway, and Nga is awaiting the report on their progress. He has also instructed council presidents and district officers to personally monitor the works to ensure everything is in order before the start of the monsoon season. Nga emphasized the importance of the top leadership visiting the ground weekly to check the progress of the contractors, especially with the onset of the rainy season. He stated that it is necessary to listen to the people’s grievances and ensure that contractors are carrying out proper maintenance work according to schedule.
As part of the allocation, the ministry has also earmarked RM1.65mil for the maintenance of seven retention ponds in Sungai Siput. These retention ponds include Taman Muhibah Jaya, Kampung Muhibah, Rimba Panjang, Taman Lintang Makmur, and Kampung Salak Baru. Additionally, the ministry has allocated RM11.13mil for 86 projects under its Sentuhan Kasih program in Sungai Siput.
Nga acknowledged the deplorable condition of a public swimming pool in Kuala Kangsar and stated that he will discuss the matter with the local council president. The pool has been inoperational for the past four years due to estimated repair costs of RM1.5mil for fixing the broken flooring and acquiring necessary equipment. Nga outlined three potential options to address this issue: applying for allocation from the federal government, obtaining funds from the state government, or entering into a public-private partnership.
In another matter, Nga highlighted that although RM1mil has been allocated to upgrade the Ipoh Central Market by the Ipoh City Council, many shop lots are currently being used for storage purposes. Nga stated that only those interested in trading in the market will be issued licenses to ensure that the market becomes an attraction once again.
